I think we can all agree that we’ve had just about enough of Winter and the exacerbated cost-of-living crisis during these colder months.
Just know you are not alone! Many individuals in the UK face increased challenges due to the rising costs of heating, food, and daily living expenses.
Staying warm and maintaining a healthy diet on a budget can feel overwhelming, but there are practical steps and resources available to help navigate these challenges. Number 1 Tip. Slow cooker.
Save on the cost of cooking with a slow cooker
Does a slow cooker reduce the cost of cooking?
Yes! A million times yes, and we are going to tell you how and by how much.
Energy Efficiency
Slow cookers use significantly less energy compared to ovens or stovetops. A typical slow cooker uses about 200 watts on low and 300 watts on high, making it a cost-effective choice for long cooking times.
They also allow you to cook entire meals in one pot, eliminating the need to use multiple burners or appliances.
Cost-Effective Meal Preparation
Slow cookers are ideal for cheaper cuts of meat, like brisket or pork shoulder, which become tender over long cooking periods.
You can prepare large portions of food in one go, saving time, reducing the frequency of meal prep, and overall combined cooking time of multiple meals. Leftovers can be frozen for later use, reducing waste.
Estimated Cost Savings
Running a slow cooker for 8 hours can cost as little as 10–20p, depending on your energy tariff, compared to around 70–80p per hour for an electric oven. Over time, this can add up to significant savings.
Using a slow cooker not only helps cut energy costs but also allows for more efficient meal planning and preparation. Not to mention, the meals are delicious! We’ve included a link to some mouth-watering slow cooker recipes below.
Have we convinced you yet? Check out these fantastic slow cooker recipes www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/collection/slow-cooker-recipes
Or don’t take it from us, Citizens Advice West Suffolk are providing a free slow cooker per household for those who attend their Upcoming Workshop aimed at helping individuals, families, caregivers, and the elderly to better manage the cost of living this winter.
Upcoming Event to help you combat the cost of living this winter!
Join Citizens Advice West Suffolk on Monday the 27th of Jan for their Free Multiply Suffolk Workshop: Heating and Eating, helping individuals and families manage the cost of living this winter. Claim your free slow cooker at the session!
Event Details:
- Date: Monday, 27th January 2025
- Time: 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Location: CA office, 90 Risbygate Street, Bury St Edmunds IP33 3AA
How to Book:
- Email: supportedadvice@swcab.org.uk
- Call: 01284 596380
Use Less Central Heating With These 3 Tips
How can I reduce my heating bills without compromising warmth?
Use Heating Efficiently: It’s a common misconception that keeping the heating on low all day is cost-effective. However, using your boiler only when needed minimises energy consumption and can lead to savings. Close off unused rooms and only heat the spaces you use regularly.
Invest in Heated Bedding: Affordable options like heated mattress pads can keep you warm at night without the need for central heating. For instance, Aldi offers a heated mattress pad for £14.99.
Heat the Person, Not the Room: Use electric blankets, hot water bottles, or heated pads to keep warm without relying solely on central heating. Wear multiple layers of clothing to retain body heat and invest in thermal blankets or throws. Draught-proof windows and doors to keep the cold air out and the warm air in.
Add these simple home adjustments to improve heating efficiency
- Install Reflective Foil: Placing radiator reflector foil behind radiators reflects heat back into the room, preventing heat loss through walls.
- Avoid Obstructing Radiators: Ensure that furniture doesn’t block radiators, as this can hinder heat circulation and make heating less effective.
- Bleed and Balance Radiators: Regularly bleeding radiators removes trapped air, improving efficiency. Balancing radiators ensures even heat distribution throughout your home.
Keep an Eye Out for Government Support
Check if you’re eligible for schemes like the Winter Fuel Payment or the Cold Weather Payment. Contact your local council or Citizens Advice Bureau for guidance and keep a look out for upcoming events to help.
Join Citizens Advice West Suffolk Free “Heating and Eating” Workshop
To provide further support, Citizens Advice West Suffolk is hosting a Multiply Suffolk Workshop in collaboration with Realise Futures. This event aims to help individuals and families manage the cost of living and prepare for winter.
Event Details:
- Date: Monday, 27th January 2025
- Time: 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM
- Location: CA office, 90 Risbygate Street, Bury St Edmunds IP33 3AA
What to Expect:
- Advice on reducing heating costs
- Resources to manage post-Christmas expenses and debt
- Tips on shopping smarter and making wiser financial choices
- Free tea, coffee, and cake
Special Offer: Every household that completes the workshop will receive a FREE slow cooker to help prepare warm, cost-effective meals this winter.
How to Book:
- Email: supportedadvice@swcab.org.uk
- Call: 01284 596380
