Christmas can be a joyful time, but it often comes with financial pressure, especially during the current cost of living crisis. Many of us feel the weight of stretching budgets to cover gifts, meals, and decorations. For women over 50, who may be managing households or supporting extended family, this pressure can be even more intense. The good news is you can enjoy the festive season without overspending or feeling guilty—and without causing tension with your loved ones. Th

A midlife woman’s practical checklist after this year’s Budget. This Budget offered a few crumbs, a couple of perks, and a handful of stealth taxes quietly creeping up behind us. Here’s what I’m personally doing — calmly, sensibly, and with one eyebrow firmly raised. 1. Checking My Pension Contributions I’m looking at my pension setup now, not in 2029 when the salary-sacrifice cap kicks in and suddenly costs me more. If you’re working and contributing through salary sacrifice

Today’s Budget rolled out a mix of small “gifts” and bigger changes — but as usual, the devil’s in the detail. For women in their 50s and beyond, some of the announcements might help, but many feel like rearranging deckchairs on a leaky ship. What’s Changed (Officially) Energy levies are being cut, leading to an estimated £150 off average energy bills next year  — potentially more for poorer households. GOV.UK +1 The government promises to freeze rail fares and prescription c