Missing Meals Is Not A Long Term Financial Solution

There's no denying the fact that once you become a mum or a dad your priorities change. Almost inevitably, any spare cash is spent on your little one, whereas in the old days you might have enjoyed a slap-up meal in town or enjoyed a weekend away.
But what about when there's simply not enough money to go around?
Tough times for families
As Britain faces one of the most challenging economic times since World War II, the effects on many families around the country has been far-reaching. The need to reduce the UK's deficit has meant austerity measures which have hit the majority of households, but some have been pushed beyond what most people would consider as acceptable.
Whether they have children or not, most people have had to make cutbacks or adjust their standard of living, as Britain teeters on the brink of a double dip recession. However, a recent survey has revealed that one in five mums is skipping meals on a regular basis in order to have enough money to feed their children. This shocking statistic highlights the fact that many families simply don't have enough money to pay for the basics.
The same research found that as many as seven out of ten families were stretched to breaking point financially and a quarter were using borrowed money, such as credit cards, in order to be able to survive.
How to deal with debt
Debt management firms such as Baines and Ernst are able to offer advice to cash-strapped families who are interested in dealing with their debt problems through debt consolidation, debt management plans, IVAs or Debt Relief Orders.
Payday loans, doorstep lenders and even illegal loan sharks have all flourished in the current climate but borrowing more money could make things worse in the long term. Instead of getting further into debt, obtaining professional advice from a specialist company could provide you with some breathing space in the short term and, ultimately, could help you get your finances under control.
Desperate times don't mean you have to take desperate measures to survive and skipping meals in order to feed the family is no way to live. And by getting advice now, you could ease your financial situation in the long run.
For example, if you qualify for a solution such as a Debt Management Plan, your debt repayments will be based on what you can realistically afford after bills such as mortgages, rent, secured loans, utility bills and council tax have been paid. This makes repaying your debts much more affordable and could give you the peace of mind you need during this tough time.

Baines and Ernst have helped over 100,000 people escape the pressures of debt. If you need advice on how to get your finances back in order, speak to their team of friendly experts.