Cost of Living: Getting Back a Bit of Control

The cost of living has made money feel tighter for many households. When prices rise faster than wages or benefits, even careful budgeting can feel difficult.

MaPS MoneyView Wales 2025 found that 57% of adults in Wales struggle to keep up, are falling behind, or have fallen behind with their commitments. It also found that 19% often use a credit card, overdraft or borrow money to buy food or pay bills because they have run short of money.

These figures show that money worries are not unusual. They also show why small, practical steps can help.

Start with the essentials

List your priority bills first: rent or mortgage, council tax, energy, water, food, childcare and travel to work. These are the costs that keep your home and daily life going.

Check what has changed

Look back over the last month. Has a direct debit increased? Has food spending gone up? Are subscriptions still useful? A quick check can show where money is leaking away.

Speak up early

If you are struggling with a bill, contact the organisation before the problem grows. Many providers can talk through payment plans or support options. Asking early gives you more choice.

Avoid panic borrowing

Borrowing to cover essentials can feel like the only option, but expensive credit can make next month harder. If you need to borrow, look for safe, affordable and ethical options.

Build one small buffer

Even £5 or £10 put aside when possible can help create a cushion. It may not solve everything, but it can stop one small cost becoming a bigger problem.

Getting control back does not mean fixing everything overnight. It means taking one clear step, then another.