One of the best things you can do during a cost of living crisis is build a financial safety net — even a small one. Life is full of surprises, and having something to fall back on can reduce stress and help you avoid debt.

A safety net usually means having some money set aside for emergencies, like a broken boiler, car repairs, or a sudden drop in income. It doesn’t have to be a large amount. Even saving a little each month builds up over time.

Here are a few ways to start:

  • Set up a separate savings account and name it ‘emergency fund’ to avoid dipping into it.
  • Save automatically if possible — for example, through a standing order on payday.
  • Round up purchases and put the spare change into savings using an app or bank feature.
  • Sell unwanted items online and add that money to your fund.

Times are hard, but a safety net gives you peace of mind and protects your long-term finances. It’s not about saving a lot — it’s about doing what you can, when you can.