A MUM-OF-TWO has shared her money-saving tips to help families get through the cost of living crisis.

Like many, Justyna Golba is experiencing first-hand the impact of higher bills and food costs.

But instead of letting the current pressures get her down, the Southampton parent has been making changes to her lifestyle to save cash.

READ MORE: Cost of living crisis in Southampton: Cafe manager speaks out

The 42-year-old, from Sholing, said she's "always been good with money" and by sharing advice, she is hoping to inspire others to better manage their finances.

She revealed her top tips to the Echo as we run our Your Money Matters campaign.

Here are Justyna's top tips to cut costs: 

- Meal planning 

In her role as a supermarket retail manager, Justyna saves with a 10 per cent employee discount.

To cut costs more she plans her and her family's weekly shop, saying that a “positive mindset” can help make changes easier.

- When food shopping, stick to the list

When shopping online during the pandemic, Justyna would often leave items in the basket but not purchased. This, she says, stops impulse buying.

“If you really want something you can come back and buy it - if not you can delete it,” she said.

- Walk to and from school instead of driving 

As a mum of two young children, aged three and eight, Justyna said walking not only saves money on petrol - but also helps her spend more quality time with her children. 

- If you can, work closer to home 

In her role as retail manager, Justyna requested to be transferred to a supermarket closer to home, and this allows her to save on petrol.

Not everyone will be able to do this but if you can, it's definitely worth asking your manager, she says.

Requesting to work from home more often, if your job allows it, would also help cut travelling costs. 

- Shop for better gas/electric/internet/water/TV provider or negotiate plan with existing 

Justyna's bills have gone up “roughly by £70 a month”.  

The best way to make sure you're not being overcharged is to shop around and compare prices from different providers to find the best deals, she said.

- Ask for help from a place of worship or community centre 

Southampton has a large, diverse group of places of worship that are often able to provide support.

There are also community help schemes to support struggling residents.

“Asking your parish” can help, says Justyna. 

- Cancel all old, unused subscriptions 

Small changes to ongoing costs can make a big difference.

Think of your current outgoings and consider cancelling subscriptions to services you can live without.

- Negotiate price for gym membership 

Gym subscriptions can be a costly monthly expense. In some cases, the price can be brought down when talking with management.  

When it comes to national chains, filling in your details but not signing up for a while can help. She said gym representatives will call you to ask and negotiate why you are waiting to make your purchase. Justyna said you can save money on certain fees this way.

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