Surviving in this economy

Hey so I'm not in the same position as you but was in similar when I was with my ex.

The only thing you can do is look at if there's any way to reduce "lifestyle" costs. It's not fair but it is the only way with the current economy. For example, cars on finance, TV and WiFi packages that you don't actually need, gym memberships etc. If you have a car on finance you may be better off buying it outright with a bank loan then trading it in against a cheaper car you buy outright.

Also maybe look at if you would be better off not working for a while? For example of you have to run two cars would you be better quitting for a while and having one car?

It's hard to know without knowing the ins and outs of your situation.

Selling anything unused on Vinted and Facebook market place may help you get a little top up.

Make sure you're getting child benefit if entitled (based on earnings not mortgage).

Maybe look at food shop swap meal deals for packed lunches or branded with own brand?

It's tough x

Similar situation, my husband works Monday -Friday and I decided to make the sacrifice and work Thursday to Sunday (4 days a week) and the child goes to nursery 2 days a week Thursday and Friday. This way I use the government funded hours and save on nursery and I get to spend alone with my child 3 days a week and my husband 2 days a weeek. We don’t have a common day off which suks, however my husband visits me on my lunch break with my child and I have a small park next to my work place and we have a little lunch picnic. I also booked holidays for 1 we end a month or two days of weekend a month in order to spend time with both husband and child. Looked into subscription and cancelled what not needed, trying to limit my spending and looking where I can get more money.

Parks picnics and free events
Cook everything
Download uber rider if you can do a few deliveries a day it all adds up to pay off an extra bill
Extra layers in winter

I’m thinking of giving up the car