December 29th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

From 1st January 2026, the energy price cap is set to rise from £1,755 to £1,758 per year for a typical household paying by direct debit. Before this comes into effect, Go.Compare is encouraging households to take a meter reading, even if they have a smart meter, to make sure they are billed accurately.*

A recent survey also revealed that one in six (16%) of British bill payers say they can’t afford any more price increases on their energy bills, and a further 29% say they are worried about the cost of their energy bills.

Gareth Kloet, energy expert at Go.Compare explains: “As we move towards the new year, it’s really important for bill payers to log a meter reading as close to the end of December as possible. Doing this helps make sure the energy you’ve used in 2025 is charged under the outgoing rates, rather than being rolled over into the higher January cap.”

While the latest price cap was only a rise of 0.2%, Gareth notes that winter usage naturally climbs as homes rely more heavily on heating and lighting – so every penny counts. He said, “Even slight shifts in prices can feel significant when consumption is at its peak, so submitting an accurate reading before midnight on 31 December helps protect you from being overcharged – especially if your account relies on estimated readings. Smart meters don’t always communicate in real time, so taking a snapshot of your readings and sending these to your supplier gives you peace of mind.”

It’s also a good time, if you haven’t already, to reassess your tariff. And with 12% of those in charge of their energy supplier saying they are nervous about switching, Gareth explains what it means and how to go about it:

“With the cap adjusting in January, it’s worth reviewing whether your current deal is still right for you. If you’re on a variable tariff, now could be a good time to compare fixed-rate options.

“The important thing to remember is that every household’s usage profile is different, so what works for one home may not suit another. Take a look at your current energy contract – the standing charges, unit rates and any early-exit fees. Then take this information and shop around for a deal that works for you and your energy needs, using a comparison website.

“As always, if you’re finding it difficult to manage your energy bills, get in touch with your supplier sooner rather than later. Providers are required to support customers in financial difficulty and can help you set up a payment plan.”

To learn more about how to switch energy providers, visit the guide here.

December 26th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

More than six in ten (62%) parents believe a traditional Christmas is under threat due to the cost of living, with four in ten (40%) having to prioritise essential bills over festive spending, new research from Nationwide reveals.

The poll of over 1,000 parents, done in partnership with charity Action for Children, also reveals that 42 per cent say Christmas negatively affects their mental health due to financial stress, rising to 54 per cent among households earning £15k and under.

Action for Children forms part of Nationwide’s Fairer Futures social impact strategy. Britain’s biggest building society is supporting the charity’s ‘Secret Santa’ campaign, helping vulnerable children across the UK feel the magic of Christmas. By becoming a Secret Santa and donating to Action for Children, you could give the essentials of warm clothes, a hot meal, or a Christmas present for a child who wouldn’t otherwise get one.

Despite the squeeze, households still plan to spend an average of £673 on Christmas including gifts, food and travel. But when looking at different household income levels, there is a clear divide. Parents with an income of £15,000 or less expect to spend an average of £350, with 17 per cent of them keeping costs at £100 or below. By contrast, households earning over £75,000 plan to spend £1,086 on average, with 16 per cent spending between £1,751-£2,000.

For many families, borrowing could be the only option to cover Christmas expenditure, as more than one in ten (12%) parents say they will go into debt, rising to 16 per cent of those with a household income of £15,000 or less. Among those that will go into debt over Christmas, 53 per cent will rely on using a credit card, 35 per cent will turn to ‘Buy Now, Pay Later’ whilst 30 per cent will go into their overdraft.

To help cut costs, parents are making tough sacrifices to afford Christmas:

• 23% will cut eating out, with 20% ditching takeaways

• 16% will work extra hours; 14% will reduce their weekly food shop

• 10% say they’re already on the breadline with nothing left to cut
• 28% said they will “worry about the costs later”

Despite the pressure of festive spending, one thing remains constant – Christmas is still about family. Across all family groups surveyed, 66 per cent said family togetherness is the most important part of the season way ahead of food and drink (46%), gifts (42%) and decorating the home (34%).

Charlotte Kensett, Director of Social Impact and Customer Experience for Nationwide, said: “It’s simply unacceptable that 4.5 million children in the UK are living in poverty. Through our partnership with Action for Children and its Secret Santa campaign, we’re working to ensure that those most in need have support not just for Christmas, but throughout the year ahead.”

Support is available

• Between June 2024 and September 2025, Action for Children distributed over £800,000 in crisis grants to parents, children and young people in poverty. They are receiving an average of 300 applications a month for crisis help.

• Action for Children provide Family Clubs which are in up to 30 locations across the UK – they create welcoming and safe spaces where families can come to eat, get warm and feel comfortable, while also building supportive relationships with other families.

December 15th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

Winter sports cover is designed to pay for the extra medical expenses you might need if you injure yourself on the slopes or fall ill while abroad, which a standard travel insurance policy might not offer. Some winter sports policies could even help fund rehabilitation physiotherapy when you return home.

Go.Compare’s research also shows that many Brits aren’t checking whether they are covered before they take to the slopes. The comparison site of those who have been on a winter sports holiday just 13% bought a specialist winter sports insurance policy, while 11% relied on an annual policy they thought covered them, but hadn’t checked.**

The analysis also revealed that over a third of travel insurance policies don’t replace hired ski equipment if it’s lost or damaged (41% of single-trip and 38% of annual policies).

Cover for piste closures also varies widely – 4% of single trip policies provide no compensation if ski areas close, while four in 10 (39%) cover £400 or more.

Rhys Jones, spokesperson at Go.Compare Travel Insurance said: “It’s easy to assume your travel insurance will protect you on a ski trip, and if you’ve got an annual policy in place, you might forget to check the conditions before you go. But as our analysis shows, this could be costly.

“It isn’t just about whether you’re covered if the piste is closed due to too little or too much snow, or if you lose your ski pass, having a specialist insurance policy in place means you’ll be protected if you injure yourself on the slopes. While standard travel insurance does cover some medical expenses, getting medical aid to someone injured on a mountain and recovering them is a more complex situation, often involving mountain rescue, and therefore costing more.

Rhys adds though, that there are limits: “Extreme winter sports like heli-skiing or competitive sports won’t be covered, though, and if you take to the piste after some pints at apres-ski or stray from the piste and get injured, your insurer could refuse your claim. So, remember to be responsible and stay sober on the slopes!”

December 10th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

New research from specialist pet insurance provider, Insure Your Paws, conducted by Opinium among 1,000 UK pet owners*, reveals that dog owners spend almost twice as much as cat owners each year.

Dog owners expect to have spent an average of £2,101 on their pets in 2025, compared with £1,124 for cat owners. Owning a dog often involves extra costs such as grooming, walking and training – expenses not usually needed for our feline friends.

24%* of all pet owners say money is no object when it comes to their pet’s health and happiness, while the same proportion admit they would rather cut back on spending for themselves than for their furry friend. 23%* who use a groomer spend more on their dog’s haircut than their own.

Dog and Cat Owners: Average annual spend in 2025

1. Vet bills including vaccinations, flea and worming, annual health check, Pet Health Plan, treatment for illnesses or injuries, medication and anything reimbursed from pet insurance
2. Adding rounded averages results in a total of £2,102 for dogs, but the accurate total is £2,101.

While the survey found the average annual routine vet bills are £370 for dogs and £250 for cats, serious health problems can cost far more. Insure Your Paws’ claims analysis** shows that treatment for a dog swallowing a household item can cost over £7,500, a fracture over £4,500 and liver failure over £7,600.  Treatment for a cat with urinary tract disease can cost over £6,000 and a cat injured in a road accident may need treatment costing over £6,600.

Andrew Simpson, Head of Pet at Insure Your Paws, said: “From toys to treats, it’s easy for spending on pets to mount up, but the biggest costs often come when we least expect them. Having the right pet insurance in place means that if your pet becomes ill, or is involved in an accident, you can focus on your pet’s wellbeing, rather than worrying about how you are going to pay potentially significant unexpected vet bills.”

He continues: “We listened to our customers and relaunched Insure Your Paws this year with more flexible, customisable pet insurance. Pet owners can now adjust vet fee limits, add optional extras, and choose a voluntary excess to build a policy that works for them.”

December 8th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

Consumers across the UK have been conned out of almost £50,000 so far this year by fraudsters selling fake beauty products and services, according to new data released today by Santander. The scams, which target both men and women, range from counterfeit perfumes and make-up to botox, lip and collagen fillers, and other cosmetic treatments.

Since January, Santander has reported a total of £49,846.32 stolen by beauty scammers, with each person scammed out of an average of £227. Fraudsters are turning to social media and private messaging apps to lure victims with enticing offers and influencer-style content promising cheap deals on popular aesthetic procedures. A third (33%) of scams took place on Facebook, followed by a quarter (25%) on Instagram. Other online hot spots for beauty scams include Snapchat, TikTok and WhatsApp.

Michelle Pilsworth, Head of UK Fraud at Santander said: “The beauty and aesthetics industry has blown up in recent months – and fraudsters are taking full advantage. Slick social media profiles and fake reviews might appear trustworthy – but if an offer looks too good to be true, it probably is.”

“The scam typically begins with a fake advert on social media promoting heavily discounted treatments or cosmetics. Once a user expresses interest, the seller will often move the conversation to a messaging app to arrange payment by bank transfer or payment link. Then the product never arrives or turns out to be fake – and victims are left with nothing but regret.”

Research indicated that these scams are highest amongst women with 68% falling victim vs. 32% of men being scammed. Although losses fell slightly to £13,442.98 in the third quarter, Santander warns that the figures remain worryingly high and could climb again in the lead-up to Christmas, as consumers look for festive makeovers or cut-price products online.

Michelle added: “This isn’t just about losing money – it’s about protecting your wellbeing. Fake cosmetic treatments can cause real harm. As the festive party season approaches, Santander is urging consumers to be especially vigilant. Fraudsters know shoppers are likely to be on the hunt for new deals and low-cost gifts ahead of Christmas, and they’ll use this to their advantage.”

Dr Emma Meredith OBE, Director-General of the Cosmetic Toiletry & Perfumery Association commented: “Counterfeit cosmetics and personal care products may look like the brands we love, but the packaging is where the similarity ends. You could be buying a product that won’t work in the way you want, or worse, could pose a serious risk to your health.

“Alongside fake goods, online scams selling non-existent products are also on the rise. The cosmetics industry takes consumer safety very seriously. Fake, illegal and fraudulent products not only jeopardise consumer wellbeing but also threaten the trust that millions of consumers have in the many legal and safe cosmetic products available and used every day.

“Always make sure you buy your products and services from reputable outlets, be suspicious of any offers that seem unusual or are pushed via social media and remember if a deal seems ‘too good to be true’, it probably is.”

The Cosmetic Toiletry & Perfumery Association has provided tips on what to watch out for when buying beauty products this festive season¹.

1. Heavily discounted prices

If the product is being offered at a very cheap price, the chances are that it is an untested and unsafe look-alike that’s not worth the potential cost to your health.

2. ‘Flash sale’ social media ads

Beware of ads promoting ‘flash sales’ for heavily discounted products. This is a technique that counterfeiters and scammer commonly use to make you rush into buying without thinking first.

3. Social account not connected to the brand website

Fake social accounts selling counterfeits may well contain the original brand name. If you’re in any doubt, head to the brand website and click back to its social media account.

4. Poor quality website

Exercise caution around websites with poor spelling and grammar or no way to contact customer services. If you’re unsure, look for reviews in forums and blogs. People will often warn others of illegal sites.

5. People who post but don’t interact

Look out for people who spend lots of time posting about products for sale on social media, but invest little to no time engaging with other community members. It’s a common counterfeit tell.

6. Unverified influencer

While being verified by a social media platform is no guarantee that an influencer isn’t selling counterfeits, it provides reassurance that if a purchase is too good to be true, you can report it to the platform who can take swift action to address this.

December 5th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

A well-optimized point of sale system has become one of the most important tools in modern retail. It shapes the pace of customer service, the accuracy of your inventory, the flow of your staff’s day and even the overall customer experience. When it works smoothly, everything else in the store feels easier. When it slows down, the entire operation feels stuck. That’s why taking time to optimize your POS is a direct investment in building a more successful business.

The challenge for many retailers is knowing where to begin. With so many moving parts, it’s not always obvious which areas need fine-tuning. But once you understand how a POS system supports your sales, inventory and customer needs, optimization becomes much more straightforward.

Understand your system and choose the right POS features

Optimization starts with understanding the structure of your tools. Retailers often don’t realise just how many functions their POS already supports, especially when it comes to inventory tracking, speed of checkout and staff usage. If your system feels slow or inconsistent, it may be due to how it’s configured rather than the technology itself. Taking the time to explore your POS settings, reporting functions and built-in automation can lead to improvements that make a noticeable impact on daily operations.

It also helps to look at the different types of retail POS systems available on the market. Some are built for high-volume environments, others for mobile sales, and some focus heavily on inventory or customer data. Even if you’re not planning to switch systems, understanding these categories gives you clarity about the features your current setup should already be supporting. When your POS matches your store’s workflow, optimization becomes much easier to build on.

Streamline checkout to improve speed and customer experience

Checkout speed directly affects customer satisfaction, and even small delays can shape how shoppers feel about your store. One of the easiest ways to optimize your POS is to simplify the steps your staff take during every sale. Shorter workflows, fewer button presses and clearly labelled product categories reduce wait times and keep lines moving faster.

Updating or expanding your accepted payment methods can also make checkout smoother as well. Customers appreciate flexibility, and offering additional options such as contactless, digital wallets or buy-now-pay-later services can speed up transactions. A faster checkout process not only improves the customer experience but also allows staff to focus more on engagement rather than troubleshooting payment issues.

Use POS insights to strengthen your daily operations

The most powerful part of any point of sale system is the data behind it. Sales trends, inventory performance and peak shopping times all help you refine your decision-making. Instead of guessing what needs to be reordered or which products are slowing down, your POS can provide you with accurate, real-time information. This kind of visibility helps prevent stockouts, reduce overordering and improve the timing of staff scheduling.

When your POS system runs smoothly, it becomes more than a checkout tool. It becomes the core of smarter, faster retail operations. By understanding your system, refining checkout and using data effectively, you create a foundation that supports growth, efficiency and a better customer experience.Optimizing your POS isn’t complicated. With the right setup, clear processes and smart use of data, your system can become one of the strongest advantages your retail store has.

Optimizing your POS isn’t complicated. With the right setup, clear processes and smart use of data, your system can become one of the strongest advantages your retail store has.

November 28th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

UK households could be wasting £625.3 million on their broadband bills every year by paying for speeds they don’t need, according to estimates from a new study.*

The research found that over a quarter (28%)** of broadband users – roughly 7.5 million households nationwide – have faster packages than they actually need.***

The research from Go.Compare broadband asked UK residents how they use their broadband and which speeds they’re paying for. According to the comparison site, many stated that they were paying for faster speeds than they needed, based on their usage requirements – meaning they could be wasting money.

Go.Compare’s broadband experts are now urging customers to consider what they use their Wi-Fi for and to check which speeds they actually need, as switching to a slower package could save a significant amount of money, without affecting your online activities.

So, how much money could UK households save? Go.Compare estimates that those overpaying are spending £6.93 more per month on average than they need to – which adds up to £83.16 annually.* Nationwide, this equates to a massive £52.1 million, meaning a fortune is being lost on broadband bills across the UK and there is a huge opportunity for households to save money.

Some could make an even larger saving – the research found that two thirds (64%) of those paying for speeds over 100Mbps don’t need broadband as fast as this.** These households could be overpaying by the most, spending an average of £9.94 more per month than needed.*

Additionally, over a third (35%) of people admitted that they don’t know what speeds they’re paying for, meaning many could be paying for a broadband package that doesn’t suit their needs.**

Catherine Hiley, spokesperson at Go.Compare broadband, commented: “When choosing which broadband package to buy, it can be tempting just to go for the fastest speeds. However, there’s no need to fork out for the top speeds if you only use your internet for basic activities.

“For example, if you just use your internet to browse your emails and watch low-resolution videos from time to time, speeds around 30 Mbps might suffice. On the contrary, if you have a house full of people who are streaming 4k videos, gaming online and working from home at the same time, you’ll probably need speeds in excess of 100 Mbps.

“If you’re not sure what speeds you need, use our free speed recommendation tool. Just tell us how many devices your household uses and what type of devices they are and we’ll give you an instant estimate.

“Remember that there are other factors to consider aside from speed and price, too. Many broadband packages include extra perks like streaming deals and free gifts, so be sure to take these into account to make sure you’re getting the best value for money.”

To find out more about broadband speeds and how to find the right package, visit: https://www.gocompare.com/broadband/what-broadband-speed-do-i-need/.

November 27th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

Getting your first car without a credit history can feel like being on a roundabout with no clear exit. You may need your car for work, study, or for everyday errands, but lenders see no record to judge how reliable you are. That doesn’t mean it’s impossible to get behind the wheel. By approaching the process strategically, you can access suitable finance and manage your budget safely, all while establishing a credit profile that opens the door to better deals in the future. Small steps now can make a big difference to your vehicle options.

Steps to build or strengthen your credit profile

There are simple actions that should be taken before you apply for car finance to make yourself more visible to lenders. Registering on the electoral roll improves your credibility and can positively affect your credit report. Setting up regular direct debits for bills and subscriptions shows consistency in managing payments. Using a credit-builder card responsibly, keeping balances low and paying in full each month, allows you to demonstrate your ability to handle borrowing. Regularly checking your credit report for errors ensures no inaccuracies hold you back. Over time, these measures increase your chances of being approved for more affordable finance products.

Exploring car finance options for applicants with thin credit files

Even without a credit history, you can access finance through various routes. Dealer finance schemes often provide tailored options for first-time borrowers, while personal loans and guarantor loans give alternative ways to fund your vehicle. Some motoring subscription services and Pay-As-You-Go plans offer temporary access to a car without a long-term commitment. Lenders may request proof of income, a larger deposit, or extra documentation when evaluating applications. If you have no credit history, exploring bad credit car finance can help you secure a suitable loan while building a record for the future.

Considering alternatives from cheaper vehicles to short-term solutions

While you work on strengthening your credit profile, there are practical ways to get moving. Purchasing a lower-priced used car with cash removes reliance on credit, giving immediate access to transportation. Car-sharing services and subscription plans provide flexibility without a long-term commitment, allowing you to drive only when necessary. Short-term leasing options can also offer mobility while you demonstrate reliability and build a credit record. These interim solutions keep you on the road and prepare you for traditional finance once your credit history is established.

Getting a car without a credit history may feel challenging but it is achievable with a clear plan. By building your credit profile steadily before purchasing your first car, exploring various finance options for first-time borrowers, and considering short term or lower cost alternatives, you can secure the best first car for you without breaking the bank.

November 24th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

With Black Friday and Christmas shopping in full swing, millions of Brits are set to have deliveries arriving to their homes. But the home insurance experts at Go.Compare are warning homeowners about the risks of leaving valuable parcels on their doorsteps, as ONS data reveals a 20% rise in thefts from outside dwellings between March 2024 and March 2025.*

New research carried out by the price comparison website has also found that three-quarters of Brits surveyed (75%) have had problems with parcel deliveries:** nearly a quarter (24%) have had items marked as delivered but never received, and more than one in ten (11%) have had parcels left outside their home stolen.

The survey also found that parcels often go awry. Almost a third of Brits (31%) received parcels that were left out in the rain, 29% were delivered to the wrong property, almost a quarter (23%) were left in a rubbish bin and 13% were left in a bush.

Nathan Blackler, expert at Go.Compare home insurance, warns that parcels stolen from outside your home may not be covered by insurance, making it crucial to think carefully about where and when deliveries are made to avoid the risk of so-called porch-pirates.

He encourages Brits to use delivery options that require a signature, arrange for parcels to be left with a trusted neighbour, or use secure pickup points such as parcel lockers or the post office. Planning ahead can keep purchases safe and ease the pressure of the festive season.

He said: “Having gifts delivered to the house can take some stress out of the busy festive period, but it’s important to remember that you won’t always be home when items arrive. Leaving parcels in the porch – or in sight of potential thieves – not only increases the risk of theft but could also mean they aren’t covered by home insurance.

“The ONS figures highlight a sharp rise in thefts from outside homes, which is a timely reminder to check what your home contents insurance does and doesn’t cover. Some policies include protection for parcel theft, but this is usually only the case if items were taken from your property and you took reasonable steps to keep them secure.”

As well as checking your home insurance policy, Nathan also offered some practical tips to reduce the risk of doorstep parcel theft:

• Schedule deliveries carefully: Arrange for parcels to be delivered when someone is home or choose a delivery time that suits you.
• Use secure collection points: Opt for parcel lockers, collection points, or delivery to a trusted neighbour or workplace.
• Install security measures: Use doorbell cameras, CCTV, or smart door locks to monitor deliveries.
• Track your deliveries: Many courier services provide real-time tracking and notifications to reduce the time parcels spend unattended.
• Use parcel theft deterrents: Signs indicating CCTV, motion-sensor lights, or secure parcel boxes can discourage thieves.

To find out more about what home insurance covers, visit Go.Compare’s guide: https://www.gocompare.com/home-insurance/guide/what-does-home-insurance-cover/

November 17th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

Over 13.5m UK adults are planning to cut back their Christmas spending this year as households feel the squeeze of soaring prices and stubbornly high living costs, new research from investment, protection, retirement and in-house advice specialist LV= reveals.

From spreading the cost of Christmas dinner to cutting back on gifts, families are finding new ways to cope with seasonal spending pressures while also trying to keep traditions alive. It seems budgeting may be becoming a new Christmas tradition for many UK households.

LV= research shows that 58% of adults, over 31.4 million people, say they are now budgeting for Christmas, and one in four (26%) are saving steadily throughout the year.

A quarter (25%) of people say they will spend less this year than they did last year, an increase of 3% compared to last year, continuing a steady downward trend in festive budgets driven by the cost-of-living crisis.

Parents of young children are the most prepared – the number of parents of under 10s that budget for Christmas rises significantly to four in five (80%). Consumers are taking a more thoughtful approach to Christmas spending, with many choosing to focus on financial stability rather than excess.

However, contrary to older generations, young Brits are bucking the trend and say they intend to splash out this Christmas. Almost three in ten (28%) 18 – 34 year olds plan to spend more this year, up by 7% on 2024 figures.

David Hynam, LV= Chief Executive, said:

“Consumers are clearly adapting to the new economic reality, making more intentional choices about how and when they spend. While overall our data is showing that Christmas budgets may be smaller, we are seeing pockets of optimism, particularly among younger people and families who are keen to celebrate.

“Budgeting is no longer just about cutting back, it’s about taking control, planning ahead and feeling prepared for the moments that matter most.”

LV= offers guidance on managing spend, visit the LV= Wealth & Wellbeing hub.