Credit Crunch Christmas Tips
- Agree a budget for Christmas presents – talk to family members about a cap on spending – they could be worrying themselves about how they’re going to afford Christmas but might not want to bring it up.
- Talk to your partner before starting shopping – take a realistic look at your finances and agree a limit so that you don’t get any nasty surprises when you open your credit card bills in January.
- If you are hosting Christmas dinner spread the cost among the whole family – ask family members or friends to cover different courses and bring a bottle.
- Have fun for free – look in local listings guides to find out what is going on over Christmas for free – it’s a great way to meet others and enjoy the festivities.
- Club together to buy a present that the whole family can share and enjoy – everyone can get involved in board-games or a games console like the Nintendo Wii.
- Remember, don’t make a debt a secret – dealing with debt alone can be devastating – share your situation with a partner, friend or family member.
- Get professional help and advice on debt issues from the CAB or from Payplan. Contact your local Relate Centre 01252 324679 for the Aldershot area and 01256 423844 for the Basingstoke area if you are feeling the strain on your relationships.
