Customer Conversations: Keep Cosy and Save Money This Winter 

Keeping warm this winter 

When it gets cold outside, nothing beats a bowl of warm soup or a crackling fire. If you’ve got an electric blanket, it’s perfect for snuggling up with a book or movie. But staying warm can be tricky and expensive, so let’s talk about how to save money while keeping cosy. 

A top tip? Wear extra layers inside and, as I like to say to my kids (in my best silly voice), “Shut that door!” 

The Royal Voluntary Service have lots of different guides available. Check out their guidance on staying safe, warm and well. 

Get Creative This Winter 

Winter is a great time to get crafty! Got some old jam jars? You could decorate them and turn them into candles. Or maybe you’d like to make a holly wreath to hang on your door. These little projects are fun and help you feel festive.  You can find lots of different how-to video’s online for free. Here’s one I like for making a Christmas star wreath.  

Free Food, Anyone? 

Did you know you can find free food if you know where to look? Even at this time of year, there’s still a bit of foraging to do. You might find nettles (they make great tea!) or dandelion leaves. If you have an allotment, you might still have some vegetables like Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, or potatoes growing. 

Another great way to save money is by visiting a food distribution point. Some places, like churches or community centres, collect extra food from supermarkets and share it for free. You can fill a bag with all sorts of goodies, but remember, it’s usually one bag per visit.  

You can also try something called FareShare. For around £3.50, you can get a bag full of food that’s worth much more. It’s an excellent way to save money and stop food from going to waste. Check online to find support near you! 

Make Your Own Soup 

One of my favourite ways to stay warm is by making soup. It’s tasty, easy, and a great way to use up spare veggies. You don’t need fancy equipment—just chop up some vegetables, throw in a handful of lentils or barley, add a stock cube, and simmer it in water. You’ll have hot, yummy soup in no time! 

If you have a blender, you can make your soup smooth (just be careful of hot splashes!). You could also use a soup maker if you have one, but it’s not necessary. 

Here’s a simple soup idea: 

• Chop a carrot, a small potato, some celery, and an onion. 

• Add lentils, barley, and a stock cube. 

• Simmer in water until everything is soft. 

In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a bowl of deliciousness!