{"id":756812,"date":"2026-06-23T23:00:31","date_gmt":"2026-06-23T23:00:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/756812\/"},"modified":"2026-06-23T23:00:31","modified_gmt":"2026-06-23T23:00:31","slug":"how-i-manage-my-money-illustrator-29-on-2200-a-month-made-redundant-twice","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/756812\/","title":{"rendered":"How I Manage My Money: Illustrator, 29, on \u00a32,200 a month, made redundant twice"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>In our How I Manage My Money series we aim to find out how people in the UK are spending, saving and investing money to meet their costs and achieve their goals. <\/p>\n<p>This week we speak to Courtney Summer, 29, who lives in Southampton with her parents and works as a freelance illustrator and graphic designer. Courtney has been made redundant twice and had to give up a rental flat she\u2019d put a deposit on after losing a job. She would like to earn \u00a360,000 a year and has recently set up a private pension after her father told her he regretted not starting one. <\/p>\n<p>Monthly budget<\/p>\n<p>My monthly income: Before tax, the income from my work as a freelance illustrator and graphic designer is approximately \u00a32,200 per month.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>My monthly outgoings: I\u2019m not paying for accommodation or utility bills at present. Groceries, \u00a3250; Adobe Illustrator, \u00a330; web hosting, \u00a314; trains and buses, \u00a3100; mobile phone, \u00a320; Apple Music, \u00a311; iCloud storage, \u00a39; eating out and takeaways, maximum \u00a350. I\u2019ve just started paying \u00a360 a month into a self-invested personal pension (Sipp). I try to add \u00a3100 to \u00a3500 to my cash savings account when I can.<\/p>\n<p>I studied illustration at university in Plymouth, before moving to London to take on my first proper job. I worked at Hamleys from 2018 as a graphic designer, earning \u00a321,500 a year, while paying \u00a3660 a month for rent. <\/p>\n<p>\n\t\t\tShorts\n\t\t<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\tScroll to previous short<br \/>\n\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/wp-content\/themes\/inews-theme\/assets\/images\/chevron.svg\" alt=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<p>\t\t\tScroll to next short<br \/>\n\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/wp-content\/themes\/inews-theme\/assets\/images\/chevron.svg\" alt=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/wp-content\/themes\/inews-theme\/assets\/images\/chevron.svg\" alt=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"960\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/PRI_186652517-1.jpg\" alt=\"D?sseldorf, NRW, Deutschland, Business, Arbeit, w46, Werbeagentur. Loft, modern, B?ro, Office, Stil\" class=\"wp-image-1441178\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover\"  \/>The Midlife MOT is open to all and covers three key areas: work, wealth and well-being (Photo: Westend61\/Getty)<\/p>\n<p>Feeling insecure at work <br \/>in your 50s? You\u2019re not alone <\/p>\n<p>The final decades of work<\/p>\n<p>There\u2019s this assumption about being put out to pasture\u2026 but now that we\u2019re living and working longer, we have to challenge myths around ageing and remember that over-50s are a crucial part of the workforce\u2026<\/p>\n<p>LYNDSEY SIMPSON, AUTHOR OF AGE REBELLION AND FOUNDER OF 55\/REDEFINED<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_297981060-e1779183716399.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>\nThe current situation\n<\/p>\n<p>By 2030, almost half of all employees in the UK workforce will be over 50.<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--statistic\">36%<\/p>\n<p>Now one in three workers are over 50.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Yet more than a third of those between 50 and 69 believe that their age puts them at a disadvantage when they apply for jobs.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--statistic\">37%<\/p>\n<p>The\u00a0Age Without Limits\u00a0study from 2024 shows that 37 per cent of workers between 51 to 70 felt badly treated in work because of their age.<\/p>\n<p>\nThe things to do, says Simpson\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_296277591.jpg\" alt=\"Online travel booking. Teleworking. Online shopping and e-commerce.\" class=\"wp-image-4407746\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>More and more people are using AI for counselling (Photo: Oscar Wong\/Getty\/Moment RF)<\/p>\n<p>Keep learning new skills<\/p>\n<p>We need the same level of career planning in<br \/>our fifties as our twenties. It\u2019s possible to reinvent yourself again.<\/p>\n<p>Embrace technology<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s nonsense that older people can\u2019t pick up how to use new tech.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_260839808.jpg\" alt=\"John?r Bildbyr? AB +46 8 644 83 30 www.johner.se info@johner.se sales@johner.se\" class=\"wp-image-4342463\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>Caption: John?r Bildbyr? AB<br \/>+46 8 644 83 30<br \/>www.johner.se<br \/>info@johner.se<br \/>sales@johner.se<br \/>Photographer: Johner Images<br \/>Provider: Getty Images\/Johner RF<br \/>Source: Johner RF<br \/>Copyright: John?r Images\/Lisa ?berg<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_297238229.jpg\" alt=\"This is a photo of a woman clutching a pink piggy bank labelled pension. See PA Feature FINANCE Pension Pots. WARNING: This picture must only be used to accompany PA Feature FINANCE Pension Pots. PA Photo. Photo credit should read: Alamy\/PA NOTE TO EDITORS: This picture must only be used to accompany PA Feature FINANCE Pension Pots\" class=\"wp-image-4454360\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>Caption: This is a photo of a woman clutching a pink piggy bank labelled pension. See PA Feature FINANCE Pension Pots. WARNING: This picture must only be used to accompany PA Feature FINANCE Pension Pots. PA Photo. Photo credit should read: Alamy\/PA<\/p>\n<p>NOTE TO EDITORS: This picture must only be used to accompany PA Feature FINANCE Pension Pots<\/p>\n<p>Photographer: Alamy\/PA<br \/>Provider: Alamy\/PA<br \/>Source: PA<\/p>\n<p>Think about money<\/p>\n<p>Do you need a pay rise? Could you trade some of that money you earn, to work a bit less, and do more things you enjoy?<\/p>\n<p>\nThe things not to do\n<\/p>\n<p>Become full-time childcare<\/p>\n<p>Grandparenting on the horizon? If you don\u2019t want to do childcare, have the conversation early \u2013  even before a child becomes pregnant \u2013 that you plan to continue working and love your job.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"512\" width=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_293257649.jpg\" alt=\"Indoor image of thoughtful puzzled senior woman with gray hair in glasses looking at paycheck holding head in hand, upset with high rent charge, sitting at kitchen table in front of laptop\" class=\"wp-image-4357900\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover;width:204px\"  \/>Caption: Indoor image of thoughtful puzzled senior woman with gray hair in glasses looking at paycheck holding head in hand, upset with high rent charge, sitting at kitchen table in front of laptop<br \/>Photographer: shurkin_son<br \/>Provider: Getty Images<br \/>Source: iStockphoto<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"711\" width=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/GettyImages-2153009147.jpg\" alt=\"Grandparents and granddaughter gardening together - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4249070\" style=\"aspect-ratio:9\/10;object-fit:cover;width:195px\"  \/>Grandparents and granddaughter gardening together \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p>Accept redundancy too quickly<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s going to be so much harder to get back into work if you don\u2019t have a plan before you take that leap.<\/p>\n<p>\nThe things not to do\n<\/p>\n<p>Rush into retirement<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"529\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/GettyImages-2222320919.jpg\" alt=\"Senior bed woman problem pain headache home elderly mature pain bedroom upset unhappy female caucasian adult relationship retirement old difficulty ache head sick migraine hangover sleep - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4304649\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Senior bed woman problem pain headache home elderly mature pain bedroom upset unhappy female caucasian adult relationship retirement old difficulty ache head sick migraine hangover sleep \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p>Everybody thinks early retirement is the dream but the reality can be different. There can be loneliness, lack of purpose and a sense of invisibility.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/inews-lifestyle\/seven-ways-happy-healthy-retirement-experts-4418698?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_288636511.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_label\">LIFESTYLE<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">5 min read<\/p>\n<p>By November, UK food prices\u00a0will be 50 per cent higher than they were at the start of the\u00a0cost-of-living crisis\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>With that in mind, food editor Sophie Morris shares how she saves money on her weekly shop<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_284592606.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>\nEasy ways to save on the weekly shop\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_300167255-e1780659501415.jpg\" alt=\"NORTHWICH, ENGLAND - JULY 06: Whole chicken sit on display in a Tesco supermarket on July 06, 2022 in Northwich, England. The British Retail Consortium recently said food manufacturers and supermarkets are having to pass on some of the cost of soaring raw materials to consumers, leading to the price of basic goods throughout the UK rising at the fastest pace since September 2008. Fresh food prices increased by 6% in the year to June 2022 coupled with an increase in inflation, and fuel and energy prices to create a cost of living crisis. This is leading to millions of low-income households going without essentials items, falling behind on bills and taking on debt. (Photo by Christopher Furlong\/Getty Images)\" class=\"wp-image-4460234\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>Caption: NORTHWICH, ENGLAND \u2013 JULY 06: Whole chicken sit on display in a Tesco supermarket on July 06, 2022 in Northwich, England. The British Retail Consortium recently said food manufacturers and supermarkets are having to pass on some of the cost of soaring raw materials to consumers, leading to the price of basic goods throughout the UK rising at the fastest pace since September 2008. Fresh food prices increased by 6% in the year to June 2022 coupled with an increase in inflation, and fuel and energy prices to create a cost of living crisis.  This is leading to millions of low-income households going without essentials items, falling behind on bills and taking on debt. (Photo by Christopher Furlong\/Getty Images)<br \/>Photographer: Christopher Furlong<br \/>Provider: Getty Images<br \/>Source: Getty Images Europe<\/p>\n<p>Avoid chicken breast<\/p>\n<p>Boneless chicken thighs are all meat and a much tastier product.<\/p>\n<p>Don\u2019t plan everything<\/p>\n<p>If you plan every meal all week, there\u2019s no leeway for necessary last-minute changes of plan (or leftovers).<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/GettyImages-1313143679-e1773308915370.jpg\" alt=\"Man Cooking By Woman Chopping Carrots In Kitchen - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4290249\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>Man Cooking By Woman Chopping Carrots In Kitchen \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"507\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_298177634.jpg\" alt=\"Young woman choosing dairy products from the refrigerator in supermarket. Healthy eating and lifestyle.\" class=\"wp-image-4429976\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>Governments are not all powerful when it comes to huge international forces like those increasing global food prices (Photo: Oscar Wong\/Getty Images\/Moment RF)<\/p>\n<p>Shop alone<\/p>\n<p>There are so many products that children want to fill the trolley with \u2013 all kinds of exciting eye candy.\u00a0It\u2019s cheaper to go alone.<\/p>\n<p>\nEasy ways to save on the weekly shop\n<\/p>\n<p>Consider a vegetable box delivery<\/p>\n<p>Having a Riverford box delivery helps Morris avoid impulse buys and go to the shops <br \/>less \u2013 even though the box is pricey. \u201cIt is expensive, but of great quality\u00a0and organic\u201d.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"512\" width=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_287693018.jpg\" alt=\"A woman choose vegetables in the supermarket\" class=\"wp-image-4272403\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover;width:204px\"  \/>Milk and potatoes prices are expected to increases sharply later this year, say supply chain experts (Photo: Kate Wieser\/Getty)<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"711\" width=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/GettyImages-1480141875.jpg\" alt=\"Low carb, FODMAP diet food background with vegetables, fruits, smoked salmon, chicken fillet, greens, nuts, olives. Menu for healthy eating . - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4275460\" style=\"aspect-ratio:9\/10;object-fit:cover;width:195px\"  \/>Low carb, FODMAP diet food background with vegetables, fruits, smoked salmon, chicken fillet, greens, nuts, olives. Menu for healthy eating . \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p>Track your spending<\/p>\n<p>It doesn\u2019t need to be an elaborate spreadsheet but without some kind of metric, it\u2019s impossible to spot where you<br \/>can or must make cutbacks.<\/p>\n<p>\nEasy ways to save on the weekly shop\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_89568901.jpg\" alt=\"Loyalty schemes not only give you points that can be spent, but often discount prices too (Photo: Reuters)\" class=\"wp-image-2542757\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>The supermarket loyalty schemes vary in their generosity (Photo: Paul Childs\/Reuters)<\/p>\n<p>Look for yellow stickers<\/p>\n<p>You can save plenty <br \/>over a year by never buying branded products at full price.<\/p>\n<p>Take stock<\/p>\n<p>Do a quick cupboard stocktake. You might find you already have three jars of one thing. <\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/GettyImages-2203788438.jpg\" alt=\"Mid-Adult Couple Calculating Their Finances On The Laptop In The Kitchen - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4333638\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>Mid-Adult Couple Calculating Their Finances On The Laptop In The Kitchen \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"510\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_273318581.jpg\" alt=\"dieting woman sneaking a biscuit treat from the cookie jar\" class=\"wp-image-4027145\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>\u201cSoft restrictions\u201d aren\u2019t infallible; we can always make the effort to get a ladder and get the biscuit tin down from the highest shelf (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p>Avoid packaged snacks<\/p>\n<p>Packing fruit, biscuits, and nuts etc into a Tupperware to take out is more cost effective than buying tiny packaged portions.<\/p>\n<p>\nEasy ways to save on the weekly shop\n<\/p>\n<p>Be wary of DIY treats<\/p>\n<p>\u201cFaking\u201d a takeaway at home can sound like a cheaper option, but if it\u2019s something you don\u2019t usually cook \u2013 that needs new ingredients \u2013 it could work out pricier.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"507\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_295915123.jpg\" alt=\"A cooked piece of battered and fried cod in a fish and chips takeaway in London, UK, on Saturday, Sept. 3, 2022. The government has been criticized for waiting until the election of a new Conservative leader before announcing new policies to help families and businesses survive an exceptional rise in global energy prices. Photographer: Betty Laura Zapata\/Bloomberg via Getty Images\" class=\"wp-image-4399288\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>Whatever you buy, buy British if you can. That will help boost fishermen\u2019s finances (Photo: Betty Laura Zapata\/Getty)<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_300167346.jpg\" alt=\"A customer looks at packages of chilled chicken cuts in a part-empty refrigerated display unit at a Lidl supermarket store in Walthamstow, west London, on September 21, 2021. (Photo by Tolga Akmen \/ AFP) (Photo by TOLGA AKMEN\/AFP via Getty Images)\" class=\"wp-image-4460236\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>Caption: A customer looks at packages of chilled chicken cuts in a part-empty refrigerated display unit at a Lidl supermarket store in Walthamstow, west London, on September 21, 2021. (Photo by Tolga Akmen \/ AFP) (Photo by TOLGA AKMEN\/AFP via Getty Images)<br \/>Photographer: TOLGA AKMEN<br \/>Provider: AFP via Getty Images<br \/>Source: AFP<br \/>Copyright: AFP or licensors<\/p>\n<p>Do you need it now?<\/p>\n<p>Returning a few things to the shelves that you won\u2019t need in the near future can save you a healthy amount.<\/p>\n<p>Skip a shop<\/p>\n<p>Every time you make do with what\u2019s at home, <br \/>you save big.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"534\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_296036180.jpg\" alt=\"Shopping for food in a modern supermarket\" class=\"wp-image-4402403\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>Supermarkets will find ways of holding down the price of the basics, and try to make their money on the fancy lines (Photo: Roy James Shakespeare\/Getty)<\/p>\n<p>\nEasy ways to save on <br \/>the weekly shop\n<\/p>\n<p>Try a week or a month of shopping local, <br \/>and you might be surprised at the results, <br \/>in terms of cost and other benefits like supporting local businesses, and <br \/>avoiding car journeys and traffic.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_294911266.jpg\" alt=\"Supermarket, Adult, Market - Retail Space, Seniors,\" class=\"wp-image-4384078\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Defenders of the triple Lock point to the fact pensioners are often asset-rich and income-poor. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p>Go shopping when you\u2019re not in a huge rush so you can make relaxed and informed decisions. Don\u2019t expect to stick to your\u00a0plan or make great choices when you\u2019re in a hurry.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>I\u2019ve been a cleaner for 30 years \u2013 these are the 10 products I swear by<\/p>\n<p>Rebecca Jones has tried most cleaning products in her<br \/>decades-long career. <\/p>\n<p>She shares the ones she can\u2019t <br \/>live without. <\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_297082126.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>\nThe 10 best cleaning products\n<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_297082006.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>Best vacuum<\/p>\n<p>Henry is a classic. <br \/>It has fantastic filters, sucks up pet hair quickly, and is great at cleaning up fine dust.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Best mop and bucket<\/p>\n<p>The Vileda H2PrO set is light, manoeuvrable and  keeps clean and dirty water separate.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_297082056.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"507\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_112586193.jpg\" alt=\"Portrait of a Window Cleaner Looking Through and Cleaning a Window\" class=\"wp-image-1719459\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>A reader has asked whether or not she should sack her cleaner because she isn\u2019t doing a good job anymore (Photo: stock image of a man cleaning a window via Getty Images)<\/p>\n<p>Best glass cleaner<\/p>\n<p>The HG Glass and<br \/>Mirror cleaner removes stains without leaving smudges or streaks. <\/p>\n<p>\nThe 10 best cleaning products\n<\/p>\n<p>Best multipurpose cleaner<\/p>\n<p>Method\u2019s multi-surface cleaner is plant-based, cruelty-free, and works great on grease, sinks, sealed wood surfaces, hobs, bins and sealed laminated floors.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"512\" width=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/GettyImages-1322049405.jpg\" alt=\"Deep cleaning glass door handles for Covid-19 disease prevention. alcohol,disinfectant spray on Wipes of Banister in home for safety,infection of Covid-19 virus,contamination, germs - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4315962\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover;width:204px\"  \/>Deep cleaning glass door handles for Covid-19 disease prevention. alcohol,disinfectant spray on Wipes of Banister in home for safety,infection of Covid-19 virus,contamination, germs \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_297082119.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:9\/10;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>Best toilet brush <\/p>\n<p>Unlike a regular toilet brush, nothing gets stuck in the bristles of Ibergrif M34152 Silicone brush. It also dries quickly, so <br \/>there\u2019s less odour.<\/p>\n<p>\nThe 10 best cleaning products\n<\/p>\n<p>Best mould remover<\/p>\n<p>Jones uses the HG Mould Spray on walls, tiles, grout, windows and outdoor furniture.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_268808752.jpg\" alt=\"A woman cleans a bathroom toilet with a scrub brush.\" class=\"wp-image-3956498\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>(Photo: boonchai wedmakawand\/Getty\/Moment RF)<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_297082118.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>Best cloths<\/p>\n<p>The Seep Eco Bamboo clothes have a streak-free finish and last.<\/p>\n<p>Best carpet cleaner<\/p>\n<p>Every home should have a bottle\u00a0of Dr Beckmann\u2019s stain remover, says Jones.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_299715667.jpg\" alt=\"Dr Beckmann Power Brush Stain Remover Image from https:\/\/www.dr-beckmann.co.uk\/products\/pre-wash-stain-devils\/\" class=\"wp-image-4450223\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>Caption: Dr Beckmann Power Brush Stain Remover<br \/>Image from https:\/\/www.dr-beckmann.co.uk\/products\/pre-wash-stain-devils\/<\/p>\n<p>\nThe 10 best cleaning products\n<\/p>\n<p>Best stain remover<\/p>\n<p>The Mr Siga Multi-Functional Eraser Sponge acts like fine sandpaper to\u00a0lift <br \/>dirt, stains, and scuffs\u00a0using only water.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"505\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_297280876.jpg\" alt=\"hand up clothes Washing machine. Clean and Healthy Concepts\" class=\"wp-image-4420365\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover;width:204px\"  \/>(Photo: Viktoriya Skorikova\/Getty Images\/Moment RF)<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_297082055.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:9\/10;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>Best kept secret<\/p>\n<p>Jones uses Bar Keepers Friend Cleanser to polish stainless-steel, scour sinks and clean her fridge and cookware. <\/p>\n<p>Around 957,000 people aged 16 to 24 are classed as NEET ie. not in Education, Employment or Training<\/p>\n<p>But as youth unemployment rises, not all companies <br \/>are looking to universities to find their new recruits. Meet the people who have benefitted. <\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"505\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_292546548.jpg\" alt=\"University of Birmingham graduates at a degree ceremony at the school's Great Hall.\" class=\"wp-image-4346562\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Poorer graduates will be hit hardest by the changes, the National Union of Students says (Photo: Andrew Fox\/Getty\/Image Bank)<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_295933067.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>For young people unable to attend uni<\/p>\n<p>My whole life was being a carer, so I was very lost\u2026<\/p>\n<p>From the age of around 10, Bruce Devlin took responsibility for everything at home \u2013 from administering his mother\u2019s medication, to doing the shopping, cooking, cleaning and supporting his mother\u2019s mental health.<\/p>\n<p>He scraped through school, leaving with the lowest grades.<\/p>\n<p>Now, aged 26, he has secured a job by pursuing an unconventional route. <\/p>\n<p>The charities helping them<\/p>\n<p>Bruce followed an unconventional route.<\/p>\n<p>Getting a foot\u00a0in the door seemed impossible with his qualifications, lack of experience and connections.<\/p>\n<p>His Job Centre work coach put him in touch with Generation, a non-profit which partners with companies to identify roles which they are struggling to fill.<\/p>\n<p>He landed a place on Generation\u2019s first IT support boot camp and benefited from CV and interview coaching.<\/p>\n<p>Bruce is now a level three senior quality engineer with 2i Testing, a company which tests other companies\u2019 software.<\/p>\n<p>The result<\/p>\n<p>Getting a full-time salary and being a contributing member of society is an amazing achievement. Without this, I\u2019d be just another person on jobseeker\u2019s allowance, wasting any potential I had.<\/p>\n<p>BRUCE DEVLIN, 26, GLASGOW<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_295933254-e1777998834680.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>\nThe apprenticeship route\n<\/p>\n<p>Jessica Andrea Carvalho had an offer to start a media and marketing degree but she rejected it at the last minute to avoid huge debt and years of classroom learning.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_295933243-e1777993845861.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>Avoiding increasing <br \/>NEET numbers <\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"507\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/GettyImages-2165952123.jpg\" alt=\"Young woman at her first job interview with the owner of a coffee shop - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4318530\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Young woman at her first job interview with the owner of a coffee shop \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p>Generation placed 700 people<br \/>like Bruce in jobs last year.<\/p>\n<p>The number of placements has jumped 20 per cent from last year.<\/p>\n<p>42 per cent of their learners come from the UK\u2019s most deprived areas.<\/p>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/inews-lifestyle\/inside-salford-school-every-pupil-job-graduate-4175580?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_280995898.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_label\">Big Read<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">10 min read<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"507\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_294335645.jpg\" alt=\"Young adults in graduation gowns joyfully tossing caps into the sky, celebrating achievement and new beginnings against a clear backdrop\" class=\"wp-image-4376868\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Plan 5 applies to students who began university courses on or after August 2023<br \/>(Photo: Abraham Gonzalez Fernandez\/Getty Images\/<br \/>Source: Moment RF)<\/p>\n<p>What do employers think?<\/p>\n<p>Creating more routes in is not just about opportunity \u2013 it helps bring in talent with different experiences.<\/p>\n<p>Paula Cunnington, the chief talent officer for Publicis Groupe UK, a network of marketing agencies that has hired 79 apprentices, says curiosity and real-world experience are far better indicators of future success.<\/p>\n<p>Up to 75 per cent of us in the UK are not drinking enough water.<\/p>\n<p>The human body can survive for a time without food, but it cannot survive for long without water.<\/p>\n<p>Here are the signs you need more fluids, according to a GP.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_298895461.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>\nHow much we should drink\n<\/p>\n<p>Water is the most vital component for life.<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--statistic\">6-8<\/p>\n<p>NHS guidelines advise we should be drinking six to eight glasses of fluid per day.<\/p>\n<p>This does vary depending on our activity levels, the weather, and if we are ill.<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--statistic\">80%<\/p>\n<p>An estimated 50-80 per cent of our bodies and brains being made up of water.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>It allows us to deliver nutrients to cells in our blood, lubricates our joints, regulates our temperature and much more.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\nHow to stay hydrated\n<\/p>\n<p>What to drink<\/p>\n<p>Not all fluids are the same \u2013 water takes top spot, as it hydrates without sugars or calories, but lower-fat milks,\u00a0sugar-free drinks\u00a0or moderate amounts of tea and coffee can all count towards fluid intake.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"960\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_296671227.jpg\" alt=\"Asian girl grocery shopping in supermarket. She is choosing fresh fruit juice along the beverage aisle, reading the nutrition label and checking ingredients on the bottle. Making a healthier food choice and balanced diet. Healthy eating lifestyle\" class=\"wp-image-4411831\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover;width:204px\"  \/>Caption: Asian girl grocery shopping in supermarket. She is choosing fresh fruit juice along the beverage aisle, reading the nutrition label and checking ingredients on the bottle. Making a healthier food choice and balanced diet. Healthy eating lifestyle<br \/>Photographer: d3sign<br \/>Provider: Getty Images<br \/>Source: Moment RF<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"507\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_300048639.jpg\" alt=\"Cheerful diversity friends toasting with coffees in a coffee shop\" class=\"wp-image-4457944\" style=\"aspect-ratio:9\/10;object-fit:cover;width:195px\"  \/>A reader bemoans that his children spend money on fancy coffees and holidays with friends, never having a penny left each month<br \/>(Photo: Getty\/Gorica Poturak)<\/p>\n<p>What to avoid<\/p>\n<p>Limit smoothies and fruit juices to 150ml per day because the sugar causes dental decay.<\/p>\n<p>\nSigns you\u2019re not drinking enough\n<\/p>\n<p>1. Our brains<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"507\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_288925027.jpg\" alt=\"A woman lies back on a couch with her arm over her eyes\" class=\"wp-image-4289425\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>The pain from migraines is sometimes described as feeling like you\u2019ve had an axe blow to the head (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p>When dehydrated, we can display an exaggerated response to pain and experience\u00a0headaches. Concentration, attention, reaction times and short-term memory can also all be negatively impacted.<\/p>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/inews-lifestyle\/drink-milk-avoid-air-con-expert-guide-hydration-3774306?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_257036807.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_label\">LIFESTYLE<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">6 min read<\/p>\n<p>\nSigns you\u2019re not drinking enough\n<\/p>\n<p>2. Our bodies<\/p>\n<p>Another common sign of dehydration is constipation. Our skin can look duller, be less bouncy to the touch and be less elastic.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"512\" width=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/GettyImages-2194273733.jpg\" alt=\"Tired Asian businesswoman working on a laptop computer in the office - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4325252\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover;width:204px\"  \/>Tired Asian businesswoman working on a laptop computer in the office \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"711\" width=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_253197276.jpg\" alt=\"Closeup portrait of gorgeous happy middle age woman looking at mirror touching her skin enjoying treatment for dry skin. Advertising of antiaging beauty skin care products\" class=\"wp-image-3714317\" style=\"aspect-ratio:9\/10;object-fit:cover;width:195px\"  \/>(Photo: Ekaterina Demidova\/Getty).<\/p>\n<p>3. Our psychology<\/p>\n<p>Research has shown that even mild dehydration can lead us to feel more moody, stressed and irritable. We can also feel more tired than usual, with less energy and motivation.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_297140333.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>Quick and life-changing tricks for a calmer, tidier home<\/p>\n<p>\nEasy habits to declutter your home\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"570\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_226050878.jpg\" alt=\"Decluttering the closet, hands on waist\" class=\"wp-image-3331441\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>I need someone to tidy up my attitude towards tidying. Who does one hire for that? <br \/>(Photo: Getty Images\/iStockphoto)<\/p>\n<p>The habits audit<\/p>\n<p>Subconscious habits can cause clutter so take regular pauses to stop and notice what you are doing during the day.<\/p>\n<p>The re-entry reset<\/p>\n<p>Establish a routine you follow every time you come home so the entrance stays clear.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/GettyImages-1427954563.jpg\" alt=\"Two young children wearing school uniforms exit their front door - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4334923\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>Two young children wearing school uniforms exit their front door \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"507\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_218224596.jpg\" alt=\"A mother and son on their way out of the front door for his first day at school\" class=\"wp-image-3240135\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>Late toilet training has become more common, putting pressure on teachers and taking up learning time (Getty)<\/p>\n<p>The exit mindset<\/p>\n<p>Each time you leave the house, take a minute to think: \u2018What can I take out with me?\u2019\u00a0To the tip? To the charity shop? To recycle? <\/p>\n<p>\nEasy habits to declutter your home\n<\/p>\n<p>The drop zone<\/p>\n<p>Doing a clear-out for charity doesn\u2019t need to be a big task. Have a donate box in a practical location to drop any unwanted items as you come across them.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"960\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_192718589.jpg\" alt=\"Man organizing and decluttering clothes at home\" class=\"wp-image-2921597\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover;width:204px\"  \/>(Photo: Westend61\/Getty).<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_240350127.jpg\" alt=\"Woman taking photo of the shirt using her smartphone for selling or donating her clothes. Decluttering , Sorting Clothes, And Cleaning Up wardrobe. Reuse, second-hand concept. Conscious consumer.\" class=\"wp-image-3539911\" style=\"aspect-ratio:9\/10;object-fit:cover;width:195px\"  \/>(Photo: Getty).<\/p>\n<p>Dedicated home<\/p>\n<p>Create a logical home for everything so it\u2019s easier to find and keeps everything in place.<\/p>\n<p>\nEasy habits to declutter your home\n<\/p>\n<p>The quick scan<\/p>\n<p>Each time you open a drawer\u00a0identify a few items you can bin, donate or return to their rightful home.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/GettyImages-2238198448.jpg\" alt=\"Woman carrying box while moving and cleaning up at home happily - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4253007\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>Woman carrying box while moving and cleaning up at home happily \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_291748459.jpg\" alt=\"Young woman at home. sorting through and organizing her wardrobe\" class=\"wp-image-4332969\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>Follow these rules to declutter your own home (Photo: Nadzeya_Kizilava\/Getty\/E+)<\/p>\n<p>One in, one out rule<\/p>\n<p>To manage wardrobe clutter follow the rule that a new item can only go in if you give something else away.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>The daily check-in<\/p>\n<p>Give yourself a few minutes at the start or end of the day to acknowledge the progress you\u2019ve made.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/GettyImages-2235970450.jpg\" alt=\"Woman Refreshing the Bed with Clean Bed Sheets in a Bright Room - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4319092\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>Woman Refreshing the Bed with Clean Bed Sheets in a Bright Room \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_278403729.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>It can be far easier to seek an internal promotion rather than a new job elsewhere<\/p>\n<p>\nThe statistics\n<\/p>\n<p>A trend of \u2018job hugging\u2019<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--statistic\">12%<\/p>\n<p>In January, available vacancies were down 12 per cent compared to a year prior.<\/p>\n<p>According to the ONS it marked 39 consecutive quarters of decline.<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--statistic\">51%<\/p>\n<p>of UK employees plan to stay in their current roles, as\u00a0Employment Hero\u2019s first Annual Jobs Report\u00a0shows. Four in 10 say competition is too high to take the risk.<\/p>\n<p>So how can you improve your current situation without leaving?<\/p>\n<p>Learn to humble brag<\/p>\n<p>Your wins don\u2019t always speak for themselves. Share them. Jump into conversations beyond your usual remit. How people see you today shapes the opportunities that come your way tomorrow.  Even small updates can have an outsized impact.<\/p>\n<p>VICTORIA MCLEAN, CEO OF CITY CV AND AN EXPERT IN CV AND PROFILE WRITING<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/GettyImages-2152890544-1.jpg\" alt=\"Drive Talent Investments with Strategic Workforce Planning. A female job-seeker answering questions during a job interview with a human resource manager in a business office. - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4282695\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Drive Talent Investments with Strategic Workforce Planning. A female job-seeker answering questions during a job interview with a human resource manager in a business office. \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p>\nMake your case \u2013 with data\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"507\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_288925043.jpg\" alt=\"A man writes in a notebook\" class=\"wp-image-4289426\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Caption: Mid adult man with eyeglasses sitting on a comfortable sofa at home, thoughtfully writing notes in a small notebook while natural sunlight illuminates the room<br \/>Photographer: Milan Markovic<br \/>Provider: Getty Images<br \/>Source: E+<\/p>\n<p>Keep a log<\/p>\n<p>The chances of your boss remembering what you achieved in Q1 by December is  low so keep a success log. <\/p>\n<p>Treat it as a proposal<\/p>\n<p>Show impact, link it to organisational goals, <br \/>and outline future <br \/>value, says McLean.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/GettyImages-1459087728.jpg\" alt=\"Male candidate handshake with the recruiter at job interview - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4312682\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Male candidate handshake with the recruiter at job interview \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/shutterstock_672987907.jpg\" alt=\"Remember that you may be able to find a new job within your current organisation (Photo: Shutterstock)\" class=\"wp-image-241971\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover\"  \/>(Photo: Shutterstock).<\/p>\n<p>Don\u2019t be shy<\/p>\n<p>Ask your boss directly what you need to do to\u00a0be promoted\u00a0in the next six to 12 months.<\/p>\n<p>\nOffer solutions to problems\n<\/p>\n<p>Ask yourself: what\u00a0keeps your organisation awake<br \/>at night?<\/p>\n<p>Solve those problems and you shift from just doing your job to being a strategic asset.<\/p>\n<p>Sharing your ideas and views with the people above you can really prove what you\u2019re capable of.<\/p>\n<p>Proactively\u00a0initiate new projects <br \/>or processes.<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0It \u2018s daunting but getting people to see you in a more elevated position before you get there is really effective.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_244309997.jpg\" alt=\"Worried businessman biting his nail while waiting for a job interview with other candidates in a hallway of an office building.\" class=\"wp-image-3591214\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Caption: Worried businessman biting his nail while waiting for a job interview with other candidates in a hallway of an office building.<br \/>Photographer: skynesher<br \/>Provider: Getty Images<br \/>Source: E+<\/p>\n<p>Ask for training<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s a fantastic signal to show how serious you are about your development.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>As careers are no longer linear, a promotion may not be in your current role, but perhaps in the same company in a broader role. <\/p>\n<p>Do some digging to find out what else might be available in\u00a0other areas.<\/p>\n<p>How to resolve the biggest rows that can end marriages<\/p>\n<p>Private school, sex and housework\u00a0can be some of the biggest causes of tension between warring couples. <\/p>\n<p>Mike Talbot, a psychologist, and chief executive of UK Mediation [below], reveals how to fix them.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_259172752.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>\nWhat couples row over\n<\/p>\n<p>Parenting and schooling<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"507\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/GettyImages-2193568679.jpg\" alt=\"Young couple having an argument. Woman is angry with man. - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4278304\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Young couple having an argument. Woman is angry with man. \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p>Psychologist Mike Talbot says parenting can expose ideological differences in a couple. He encourages people to listen to each other, and find a \u201cthird way\u201d, something that they come up with between themselves, rather than sticking to one person\u2019s opinion.<\/p>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/opinion\/arguments-kill-relationship-therapist-avoid-4088195?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_277320357_1765216508.087.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_label\">OPINION<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">3 min read<\/p>\n<p>Money (or a lifestyle)<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_296123217.jpg\" alt=\"A mature couple sitting in bed and looking at each other angrily after a disagreement\" class=\"wp-image-4403586\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Caption: A mature couple sitting in bed and looking at each other angrily after a disagreement<br \/>Photographer: kupicoo<br \/>Provider: Getty Images<br \/>Source: iStockphoto<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s common for couples to disagree on their property or finances.<\/p>\n<p>Couples might have different ideas about what the best plan of action is for the future.<\/p>\n<p>Dr Talbot says its important to find \u201ccommon ground\u201d on what both parties wish for, or worry about.<\/p>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/inews-lifestyle\/ready-retirement-wife-wont-leave-job-driving-apart-4385201?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_295251118.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_label\">Agony Uncle<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">5 min read<\/p>\n<p>\nIncompatibilities around sex\n<\/p>\n<p>Dr Talbot has seen this when one person loses their sex drive. \u201cIt can happen when the couples get older, and she\u00a0loses her sex drive during menopause, whereas the guy\u2019s still as randy as he was when he was 20.\u201d<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_299338552.jpg\" alt=\"Young couple having relationship difficulties at home. Both about 25 years old, Caucasian people.\" class=\"wp-image-4446376\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Caption: Young couple having relationship difficulties at home. Both about 25 years old, Caucasian people.<br \/>Photographer: GoodLifeStudio<br \/>Provider: Getty Images<br \/>Source: E+<br \/>Copyright: DAMIR MIHAJLOVIC<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_288117592.jpg\" alt=\"Millennial black lady vacuuming floor while her husband watching TV, not helping her with household duties, cropped view. Unrecognizable young couple having problem with domestic chores\" class=\"wp-image-4279339\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Caption: Millennial black lady vacuuming floor while her husband watching TV, not helping her with household duties, cropped view. Unrecognizable young couple having problem with domestic chores<br \/>Photographer: Prostock-Studio<br \/>Provider: Getty Images\/iStockphoto<br \/>Source: iStockphoto<\/p>\n<p>Domestic workload<\/p>\n<p>We get people disagreeing about how tidy the house should be, how neatly dressed the kids should be\u2026\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>This goes back to the gender stereotypes.<\/p>\n<p>The solution is to focus on value and to get the couple to think about the conflict in a different way.<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/wp-content\/themes\/inews-theme\/assets\/images\/chevron.svg\" alt=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>I then got a job as an illustrator at an animation company, making \u00a325,000 a year. In 2021, during the Covid-19 pandemic, I was made redundant. I ended up being unemployed for six months and went on universal credit, which didn\u2019t even cover my rent. <\/p>\n<p>In November 2021, I got a new job as a designer at a tech startup in London, working remotely. I started on \u00a328,000 a year, while paying \u00a3750 a month for rent and bills. I discovered a lot of my peers working at the firm were earning considerably more than me, so I asked for a raise. My pay went up to \u00a337,500. <\/p>\n<p>I was made redundant from the job at the tech startup in December 2023, meaning I\u2019d been axed twice in the space of a few years. A message on Slack came through asking for a meeting out of the blue, and I was told I was being let go. It did feel personal, even though I knew it shouldn\u2019t have. It was unexpected and gut-wrenching. <\/p>\n<p>After being made redundant for the second time, I knew I had to move back home, as the financial impact would be too severe otherwise, particularly with rental costs in London. I\u2019d just paid for a deposit on a flat to rent in Brighton the day before I was made redundant for the second time, and the move had to be cancelled after I lost my job at the startup. <\/p>\n<p>The job market proved extremely challenging and I found myself without a job two years later. I was reluctant to go on universal credit again, but did after my parents said it was a good idea. I\u2019ve since come off universal credit and found being on it was a bit demeaning. <\/p>\n<p>In the interim, I ended up getting another short-term job at a startup in December 2024, but believe it was a scam. I was not paid at any point, despite being promised I would be. <\/p>\n<p>I\u2019ve now launched my own business as a freelance illustrator and graphic designer, and wish I had done it sooner. Before tax, I make about \u00a32,200 a month and hope this will increase. One of my main clients is a theme park and I\u2019m currently also working on a children\u2019s book for a wedding company. <\/p>\n<p>Setting boundaries as a freelancer has been challenging. I need to set aside free time for myself. Having contract clauses in place and standing firm on them has been useful, particularly if clients ask for more than they did initially. Knowing what to charge clients has also been difficult. <\/p>\n<p>I\u2019ve got about \u00a39,000 in pensions from when I was employed. Since going freelance, I\u2019ve started focusing more on pensions and have just opened a Sipp, which I\u2019m adding \u00a360 a month to. My father didn\u2019t have a private pension and told me he regrets that. <\/p>\n<p>I\u2019ve always been very careful with my money and don\u2019t spend it unnecessarily. I don\u2019t really spend any money on clothes as I am super green and use Vinted, and I only spend what I earn in the app. <\/p>\n<p>I\u2019ve only recently got a credit card to ensure I can build up a credit score and use it abroad easily. I have \u00a315,000 spread across a standard savings account with my bank and some inherited premium bonds. Investing feels a bit foreign to me. <\/p>\n<p>Part of me wants to become a digital nomad and travel to places like Costa Rica or Canada, but I\u2019ll need to see how freelancing pans out. I don\u2019t know how feasible it will be for me to buy my own home in the UK, but do want to rent somewhere myself at some point. I don\u2019t know if I\u2019ll be able to buy a home without an inheritance. <\/p>\n<p>Currently, I\u2019m very motivated by money due to my current living situation. I want to be financially stable again. I\u2019d like to be making \u00a350,000 to \u00a360,000 a year and have the ability to dictate what work I take on and when. Not having to worry about money would be brilliant. <\/p>\n<p>Want to take part in How I Manage My Money? Email <a href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/inews-lifestyle\/money\/saving-and-banking\/mailto:money@theipaper.com\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">money@theipaper.com<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"In our How I Manage My Money series we aim to find out how people in the UK&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":756813,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[14],"tags":[45,49,48,2443,133,108415,124,6107,131,132],"class_list":["post-756812","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-personal-finance","tag-business","tag-ca","tag-canada","tag-employment","tag-finance","tag-how-i-manage-my-money","tag-jobs","tag-pensions","tag-personal-finance","tag-personalfinance"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/756812","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=756812"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/756812\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/756813"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=756812"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=756812"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=756812"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}