Home cost of living

Save on self care

Save on self care this January by switching to generic over the counter medicines, rather than branded options.

According to Money Saving Expert, Martin Lewis, branded medicine can cost up to three times as much as generic alternatives, additionally some branded medication is exactly the same as non branded alternatives.

So, whether you’re dealing with a stuffy nose, sore throat, or muscle aches, choosing generic options save on self care with this handy advice:

Compare the Active Ingredients

Check the active ingredients on the product packaging. Generic medicines often contain the same ingredients as branded ones but at a much lower price. Compare before you add them to your shopping basket!

Ask if There’s a Cheaper Option

Don’t be afraid to ask if there’s a more affordable option available; especially if the shelves look empty or you’re speaking with a pharmacist.

Speak to the Pharmacy Team

Pharmacy teams are medication experts. Their advice can be especially useful if you’re already taking regular medication. They can also help if you’re unsure which product will help your symptoms.

Keep the Basics Stocked at Home

Buying the basics can help with the unexpected costs of being unwell. Save on self care by buying pain killers, lozenges, cough syrup and plasters through the warmer months ready for winter.

Check What You Already Have

Regularly check your medicine at home to make sure everything is still in date and usable. Knowing what you already have will prevent unnecessary overbuying. Read about what to keep in your medicine cabinet here.

Home cost of living

Keep warm this winter

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Layer up with warm clothing: One of the simplest ways to stay warm is to layer up. Thermal layers are best, but if you don’t have any, multiple thin layers will work just as well. Lots of thin layers are much better than one thick layer!
Invest in a quality winter blanket: A cosy blanket is brilliant for while you’re at home. Look for materials like fleece, wool, or down. For maximum warmth you could invest in a heated underblanket or throw. There are lots on the market to choose from.
Use a space heater: If you don’t want to heat your entire home a space heater could be the solution for you. Heat up the rooms you spend most of your time, like your living room or bedroom, and turn it off when you don’t need it.
Heat your main living space to at least 18°C (65°F): Sitting or sleeping in a cold room isn’t just uncomfortable it can be bad for your health. Aim to heat your home, especially your main living space, to at least 18°C (65°F).
Seal gaps and draughts: Cold air sneaks in through windows, doors, and gaps in your home’s insulation. Keep warm this winter by sealing draughts or using draught excluders to keep the warm air in and the cold air out.
Energy efficient comfort: Hot water bottles are an effective and affordable way to keep warm this winter. If you’ve had yours for a while, consider updating it. They do have an expiration date!
Stay active: Exercise is a natural way to warm up your body. Moving increases circulation and keeps you feeling warm even on the coldest days. Staying active can help maintain health through the winter months, not to mention your mental health and wellbeing too.
Don’t slip on your slippers: A good pair of cosy slippers are essential for keeping warm. Make sure they’re well fitting and have some grip.
Sip on hot beverages: There’s nothing like a hot cup of tea or coffee (or even hot chocolate) to warm you from the inside out. A hot drink will help boost your body temperature and keep you cosy.
Combat condensation: As we turn the heating up, we can find our homes are plagued by excess moisture. A dehumidifier helps to balance the moisture levels in your home. They reduce condensation and the likelihood of any mould issues too. There are options available to suit any budget.
Where a hat, scarf and gloves: a coat just isn’t enough when it comes to cold weather. When you’re outside wear a hat, scarf and gloves to keep off the chill. Our busy lives mean we can forget the most simple things at times, so keep them with your coat or bag ready for when you leave the house.
Ask for help if you need it: If you need help with warm home funding, visit the local council pages linked on our winter wellness page.