Your Money, Your Rules
Look, budgeting doesn't have to feel like homework. We've picked up a few things over the years helping folks in Stoke-on-Trent and beyond get their finances sorted. These aren't magic tricks—just practical ideas that actually work when you stick with them.
Updated for 2025 realitiesThink Different About Spending
Most people try to cut everything at once and burn out by week two. We've seen it happen. The trick is changing how you think about money before you change how you spend it.
Picture this: instead of asking "can I afford this?" try "is this worth my time?" Because that's what money really is—stored time and effort.
- Track one week of spending without judgment
- Find three expenses that surprised you
- Question automatic subscriptions monthly
- Wait 48 hours before big purchases
Four Approaches That Actually Work
Everyone's different. What works for Rhodri down the street might drive you mad. Try these on and see what fits your life.
The 50/30/20 Split
Half your income covers must-haves like rent and groceries. Thirty percent goes to things you enjoy. The last twenty percent? That's your future self saying thanks. Simple math that works for most households in 2025.
Cash Envelope Method
Old school but effective. Divide physical cash into envelopes for different spending categories. When the envelope's empty, you're done for the month. You can't swipe what you don't have.
Zero-Based Planning
Give every pound a job before the month starts. Your income minus your planned expenses should equal zero. Sounds intense, but it stops money from disappearing into the void.
Pay Yourself First
Set up an automatic transfer to savings right after payday. You adapt to living on what's left. Out of sight really does mean out of mind—in a good way this time.
Real People, Real Progress
We asked a few clients how they turned things around. Their words, not ours. No fairy tales here—just honest accounts of what changed.
Casimir Tomlinson
Small business owner, Derby
"I was mixing business and personal spending like a disaster waiting to happen. Took about six months to separate everything and actually see where money went. Now I sleep better and my accountant doesn't give me that look anymore."
Leofric Pemberton
Teacher, Nottingham
"The 50/30/20 thing sounded too simple to work. Turns out simple is exactly what I needed. Started in January 2025 and by March I'd saved more than the previous year. Just needed someone to explain it without the jargon."
Thaddeus Wainwright
Retail manager, Leicester
"Used to check my bank balance and immediately feel stressed. Now I know where everything goes before it leaves. Still can't afford everything I want, but at least I'm choosing what matters instead of wondering where it all went."
Ready to Sort This Out?
We're running budget workshops throughout autumn 2025. Small groups, real conversations, practical tools you can actually use. No pressure, no judgment—just straightforward help from people who've been doing this since before budgeting apps existed.
Get Workshop Details
The Boring Stuff That Actually Matters
Nobody gets excited about spreadsheets and receipt tracking. But you know what's even less exciting? Not knowing why your account's empty three days before payday.
We teach the boring stuff because it works. Review your spending weekly for a month. You'll spot patterns you never noticed. That coffee habit might not be the villain—but those forgotten subscriptions definitely are.
Start with one month of honest tracking. Don't change anything yet—just observe. You can't fix what you can't see.