Water companies in England and Wales are facing growing pressure to enhance support for vulnerable households as steep bill increases approach. The regulator Ofwat is expected to announce significant rises in water bills for the next five years, beginning in April 2025. The industry has requested permission to charge billions of pounds more to fund infrastructure upgrades and maintain financial returns for investors. However, consumer groups, including the Consumer Council for Water (CCW), warn that these hikes could render water bills unaffordable for many households, urging water companies to take more robust action.

A new report has shed light on the increasing strain high motor insurance costs are placing on UK drivers. Based on data from 6,000 UK adults, the findings reveal a growing affordability crisis, with the number of people priced out of the car insurance market rising by 900,000 in just the last 12 months. This adds to the 1.7 million people already unable to afford insurance for over a year, leaving them unable to drive and highlighting a stark example of financial exclusion in an essential market.

As the 31 January 2025 Self Assessment deadline nears, HMRC is warning taxpayers to stay vigilant against scams and fraudulent communications.

Christmas is often portrayed as a time of joy, family gatherings, and festive celebrations. Yet, for many, it’s a stark reminder of isolation and loneliness. According to Age UK, more than 1.4 million older people in the UK struggle with loneliness, with almost a million saying they feel lonelier during the festive season. However, it’s not just older generations who feel the impact. People of all ages, including young adults, can experience a profound sense of disconnection during what is supposed to be the “happiest time of the year.” The good news? A small act of kindness or a little time can make an enormous difference.

As Christmas approaches, shopping lists are being ticked off, and gifts are piling up under the tree. But amidst the festive cheer, it’s vital to stay vigilant about product safety. Here's how you can ensure your purchases are safe and your holidays stress-free.

If you’re looking to take control of your finances, small changes can lead to big differences in how you manage your money. One powerful approach is to plan ahead. Here are some tips to help you get started.

While heat networks are considered an efficient way to deliver energy, they fall short of the consumer protections found in regulated energy markets. These protections include price caps, clear billing, and support for those facing financial hardship — all crucial safeguards that heat network consumers currently lack. This absence of protection is even more concerning because consumers can’t switch suppliers if their current provider fails to meet standards.

Child poverty is climbing, with 700,000 more children living in poverty compared to 2010. In response, the Labour government has introduced a Child Poverty Taskforce. But a critical question remains: will they reconsider the 2-child limit?

Have you ever looked at your payslip and felt confused by all the numbers and codes? You’re not alone. With so much information packed into one document, it can be tough to figure out how much money you’ll actually receive.

The UK energy market has been in disarray over the past three years, leaving consumers struggling with rising bills and poor service. Energy suppliers consistently rank low for customer service, and the cost of energy remains significantly higher than it was in 2021. Many vulnerable people, particularly those on low incomes, aren't receiving the necessary support to stay warm.

A new study highlights that mothers under 20 are at the highest risk of being involved in care proceedings within 10 years of giving birth. Led by UCL researchers and funded by the Nuffield Foundation, the research analysed data from 3.5 million first-time mothers in England between 2007 and 2021.

As the colder months approach, Winter Fuel Payments (WFP) have become a critical lifeline for many, especially pensioners and those on low incomes. With recent changes to WFPs, it's more important than ever to understand the eligibility criteria and the potential delays in processing claims.

Care leavers, those who have spent time in the care system and transition to independence between the ages of 16 and 25, face challenges far greater than their non-care-experienced peers. With the local authority acting as their ‘corporate parent,’ the state has a duty to support these young people as they embark on their journey into adulthood. However, the current benefits system, particularly the Universal Credit (UC) scheme, falls short of this responsibility, often leaving care leavers struggling to make ends meet during a critical period in their lives.

Moving to university is an exciting but challenging time. Whether you're a first-year or returning student, here are five crucial tips to make your transition smoother.

In the digital age, where online shopping has become the norm, parcel delivery scams have emerged as a significant threat to consumers across the UK. With the convenience of ordering goods online comes the risk of falling victim to increasingly sophisticated scams, particularly those delivered through text messages. Recently, Three Mobile has issued a warning urging all UK users to be on high alert for these scams, which have seen a dramatic rise in recent months. This article explores the growing issue of parcel delivery text message scams, the tactics used by scammers, the demographics most at risk, and steps you can take to protect yourself.

In today's financial landscape, building and maintaining a good credit score is more critical than ever. For young adults in the United Kingdom, particularly those just stepping out of school or university, understanding the importance of credit and how to manage it can be a daunting task. The challenges are compounded by a lack of financial education, the allure of easy credit, and the rising cost of living. This article aims to explore the growing issue of building good credit among young adults in the UK, offering insights into the obstacles they face and providing practical tips to help them navigate their financial journey successfully.

New figures reveal that nearly half of private renters in England are living with damp, mould, or excessive cold, even during summer. Citizens Advice found that 45% of private renters are affected, with 48% of these households enduring these conditions for over a year. As rents hit record highs, low-wage renters are spending over half their income on housing and energy costs, highlighting a pressing need for improved living conditions and affordable housing solutions. Read more to learn about the current housing crisis and how we can support renters in need.

As of January 17, 2024, new rules ban unexpected mid-contract price increases for mobile, pay TV, and broadband services, ensuring financial transparency for consumers. This change comes in response to rising customer complaints about unforeseen price hikes. Companies must now clearly outline any potential price increases "in pounds and pence" at the point of sale. Learn more about how this regulatory shift aims to protect your financial stability and enhance the competitive market. Read on for full details and insights from industry experts and consumer groups.