June 30th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

A new study has estimated that insurers have rejected £801.8 million worth of home insurance claims for damages caused by pets, as many Brits don’t realise it is often excluded from home cover.

As a result, thousands of policyholders could have seen a needless increase in their premiums, thanks to having to disclose a ‘rejected claim’ at renewal. Now, pet owners are being reminded to check what they’re covered for before claiming to prevent avoidable price hikes.

The numbers come from Go.Compare home insurance, which combined survey results with FCA figures on home insurance payouts. It says that UK pet owners have had over 480,000 claims for damages turned down – equal to roughly 2% of the country’s pet owners. Based on the average claim value, this means millions have been lost due to owners not knowing the limitations of their insurance policy.

The comparison site advises that damages caused by pets might only be covered by accidental damage protection, which is not included as standard on all policies. Yet, many pet owners are unaware of this. Almost half (45%) told Go.Compare that they didn’t know home insurance typically doesn’t cover damages caused by pets – equal to around 12.5 million pet owners unaware of this key stipulation.

The study also highlighted that younger residents are the least knowledgeable about this issue, as substantially more older pet owners said they knew about the rule than younger ones. Just under two-thirds (64%) of over-54s knew about this, a figure which dropped to 53% among those aged 35 to 54, and 46% of under-35s. This suggests that younger Brits need a better understanding of insurance practices.

Pet owners with multiple animals were also more likely to know about the rule. Around half of those with one or two pets said they were aware of it, but this increased to roughly two-thirds (68%) of owners of three pets and around 88% of those with four pets or more.

Go.Compare states that while cover for this type of damage is rare, owners can find it in some policies. Just over half (52%) of pet owners who claimed for pet damage were successful, according to the survey results. This is equal to around 519,000 accepted claims and £862.4 million paid out to owners by home insurers for property damage caused by pets.

Nathan Blackler, home insurance expert at Go.Compare, said: “It’s clear from our survey that many pet owners don’t realise their home insurance probably won’t cover them if their pet causes damage to their property, which is leading to thousands of rejected claims. Having a claim rejected can also result in higher premiums, so it’s crucial to check that you’re definitely covered before making a claim.

“You can find protection for these damages from some providers if it’s something you feel you’ll need, but you might have to shop around. Before you buy a policy, you should always check what’s covered and what’s excluded. If pet damages aren’t included, see if the provider offers accidental damage cover as an add-on, and check whether this will protect you against cat or dog damage.

“Taking the time to investigate these details will prevent you from encountering any unwanted surprises and avoidable price hikes whenever your cuddly companion gets up to mischief. That’s why you should always compare policies to find a provider that offers the level of cover you need for a price you can afford.”

More information about the impact of pet ownership on home insurance can be found on Go.Compare’s website.

June 25th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

June 24th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

A new study has estimated that 11 million users could have access to full fibre broadband without realising, meaning some customers might be eligible for a free upgrade.

Around one in four (26%) broadband users said they didn’t know whether or not their home has a full fibre connection when surveyed by Go.Compare broadband. The comparison site says this is equal to around 13.8 million users. Go.Compare also found that around 80% of homes have access to a full fibre connection. It combined this data with ONS figures to estimate that 11 million people in the UK could be unknowingly missing out on faster internet speeds.

Roughly eight in ten homes in the UK have access to full fibre, the technology with the potential for the very fastest speeds. The nationwide fibre rollout is happening fast, and many customers still on slower hybrid fibre connections are eligible for a free upgrade.

In addition, some users could be on a full fibre connection already without realising, and might be able to get faster speeds for their money by switching to a better deal.

The Go.Compare survey also found that those who receive the worst service are the least likely to know their connection type. Of those who said they receive a very unreliable service, 40% did not know if their property has access to full fibre, compared to 23% of those who said their broadband is very reliable. This means those who most need a free upgrade are the least aware that they could have access to it.

The broadband comparison site added that many customers could be unknowingly receiving a below-standard service, simply because they don’t know what speeds they’re paying for. Almost half (48%) said they don’t know their broadband speeds, meaning they could be receiving slower speeds than promised without realising.

As a result, Go.Compare is reminding users to check the speeds they were promised and to test what speeds they are actually receiving, as providers have a legal obligation to deliver what was advertised.

Matt Sanders, broadband expert at Go.Compare, said: “Many broadband providers offer free upgrades from hybrid to full fibre, so it’s well worth finding out what connection type you currently have and whether you have access to an upgrade. You could get a better connection for no extra cost. Even if you’re already on fibre, you could find faster speeds for the same price by comparing deals, so it’s worth looking into.

“Note down the key details of your current broadband deal, such as the connection type, speeds you’ve been promised and what you’re paying. This will make it easier to check if you’re getting the service you were sold, and whether you could find a better deal by comparing packages when your contract is up.

“You can easily check the speeds you’re actually getting by using a free broadband speed checker online, like the one on our website. Remember to contact your provider if the speeds are slower than what you were sold, as they’re obliged to deliver what they advertised.

“If you’re getting the advertised speeds but your connection still feels slow, you might want to upgrade to a package offering more bandwidth. Comparing deals can help you find the speeds you’re looking for at a lower price.”

Broadband users can test their connection using the free speed checker on Go.Compare’s website.

June 20th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

SIM-only mobile network spusu is celebrating two years of operation in the UK by giving customers 5GB of free data for the remainder of June. To claim the free data, customers must reply to the text from spusu by the end of June 22, 2025.

Since entering the UK market, spusu has offered highly competitive mobile plans, with their cheapest plan launching in April 2025 at just £4.90. With a focus on fairness, transparency and outstanding customer support, spusu has quickly carved out a reputation as a reliable and people-first provider.

This promotion is designed to thank customers and help them stay connected without worrying about extra charges. Whether streaming, browsing or video calling, the extra 5GB gives users more freedom to enjoy their mobile experience — just one of the many ways spusu continues to prioritise its customers.

Customers will receive an automated text message with instructions on how to claim their 5GB of complimentary data as part of the anniversary celebration. This promotion applies to all customers, besides those on an unlimited plan.

To secure their 5GB of free data, customers must reply to the text from spusu by the end of the day on June 22, 2025.

“Over the past two years, we’ve been proud to deliver on our promise of simple, fair and accessible mobile services,” said Christian Banhans, spusu’s UK managing director. “Since launching in the UK in 2023, we’ve grown our customer base and stayed true to our values of offering transparent, affordable mobile plans with first-class support. 

“This 5GB giveaway is our way of saying thank you to the customers who’ve joined us on this journey,” continued Banhans. “Looking ahead at the next two years, we’ll continue offering more value and benefits to our customers, ensuring they always feel supported and connected.”

To discover spusu’s SIM-only plans starting from £4.90, visit spusu.co.uk/plans

June 20th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

In a world where financial decisions are often driven by emotion or impulse, mastering your mindset around money can become substantial to lasting wealth and stability. It’s almost like a rewiring your brain to put your financial goals above the split-second coffee purchase or fast fashion you’ve just seen an influencer show off. Building a better connection with money can help you succeed in the long run, from saving and investing to spending habits.

Recognise the Psychology Behind Your Spending

Our financial habits are influenced by psychology. Fancy some retail therapy after a tough day in the office or maybe it’s the thrill of finding a 50% off sticker at the supermarkets. Emotional triggers often dictate our spending choices. To break this cycle, start by tracking your monthly expenses (These are your needs, not wants). Can you identify patterns? If you’re feeling a certain way does this, make you feel the need to spend? Mindful spending begins when you understand these triggers and replace them with healthier coping mechanisms.

Build a Sustainable Saving Routine

Rethinking your financial behaviours means putting saving at the heart of your money habits, not leaving it as an afterthought. A simple yet powerful way to do this is by adopting the “pay yourself first” approach — set up an automatic transfer to your savings account the moment your income lands. Even if you start with small amounts, what matters most is consistency. Over time, those modest contributions can quietly grow into a meaningful safety net, ready to support you when life’s unexpected expenses arise!

Create Healthy Investing Habits

Building wealth is not just about saving. It is also about making your money work for you. Healthy investing habits begin with education. Understand the basics of risk and long-term planning. Consider starting low cost to spread risk. It’s also important to stay disciplined during market fluctuations and resisting the urge to panic sell. For younger investors especially, developing these good habits early can set the foundation for lifelong financial growth.

Practice Financial Mindfulness

Mindfulness isn’t something to leave behind in meditation sessions or on a yoga mat — it can be one of your most powerful allies in shaping a healthier relationship with money. Before you reach for your wallet or hit “buy now”, take a moment. Breathe. Ask yourself: Does this truly serve my goals? These brief pauses can work quietly but powerfully, helping you rise above impulse spending and stay true to the path you’ve set for your financial future. It helps to check in with yourself regularly too. Carve out a little time, perhaps once a week or at the end of the month, to look over where your money has gone. Notice what is working, where you might want to adjust and where you can give yourself credit for good choices. Mindfulness invites you to stay present with your finances, so small problems do not have the chance to grow into bigger ones.

Set Clear Financial Goals

Without a clear sense of purpose, money can slip away almost without you noticing (or tap away!), spent on things that do little to bring lasting joy. But when you have a vision, something that excites you and feels worth striving for, every decision starts to carry more meaning. Maybe it’s the dream of a place to call your own, the freedom that comes with clearing debts, or the promise of adventures in far-off places. That vision becomes the thread that ties your financial choices together.

Surround yourself with small reminders of what you are working towards. Let those glimpses of the future keep you motivated, and when you reach a milestone, take a moment to enjoy it. After all, progress is not just measured in numbers. It’s in the growing confidence that you are building the life you truly want

Final Thoughts

Rewiring your financial habits is a journey of self-awareness, discipline and continuous learning. By understanding the emotions that drive spending, prioritising saving and cultivating smart investing behaviours, you can build a healthier, more resilient financial future.

This is a guest post from freelance blogger Rosie Buckley rosie.buckley@contentncoffee.com

June 19th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

Separation and divorce often bring unexpected financial challenges that extend far beyond the obvious legal fees. Many couples find themselves caught off guard by additional expenses that emerge during this difficult transition. From establishing separate households to dividing assets and managing new tax implications, the financial ripple effects can be substantial and long-lasting.

The process of untangling shared finances after years together presents numerous practical hurdles. Joint accounts need closing, mortgages require restructuring, and pension arrangements demand careful consideration. Even seemingly small details like updating insurance policies or revising wills can have a major financial impact if overlooked during this emotionally charged time.

Knowing about these costs early in the separation process can help individuals make better decisions. With proper planning and professional guidance, it’s possible to address these financial challenges while protecting your long-term economic wellbeing.

Financial shocks that accompany relationship breakdown

When couples separate, the immediate financial impact can be severe. Living standards often drop because the same income that once supported one household must now stretch to cover two. According to recent Office for National Statistics (ONS, 2023) data, the overall cost of separation has risen sharply in recent years.

Early legal advice can help people learn about and prepare for these financial changes. While legal fees are an obvious expense, many other costs catch people by surprise.

Setting up a new home requires significant spending. From rental deposits to basic furniture and household items, these expenses add up quickly. For parents, there are often additional travel costs for child arrangements.

Financial recovery after separation can take several years and varies for each person. The typical time to settle finances is often close to a year, but for some, the process can take much longer.

Protecting your credit score during separation

Joint financial products become particularly risky during relationship breakdown. When couples share credit cards, loans, or mortgages, both parties remain legally responsible for the debt regardless of who spends the money or keeps the asset.

Maintaining a credit score during separation involves several specific steps. First, request a copy of your credit report to identify all linked joint accounts. Next, establish a clear plan for separating financial ties carefully.

Prompt action helps reduce the chance of unwanted negative marks on credit files. This can make future borrowing or mortgage applications easier. When confusion arises, consulting a legal expert can provide guidance on avoiding common pitfalls.

Managing joint mortgages and property finances

For the family home, couples typically have three main options. They can sell the property and divide the proceeds, transfer ownership to one person with appropriate compensation, or maintain joint ownership temporarily. 

Mortgage applications often present additional difficulties after separation. Lenders assess affordability based on a single income and may examine the presence of ongoing maintenance payments. Assistance from Nottingham divorce lawyers ensures financial agreements receive proper documentation.

Looking after your interest in property assets requires that all arrangements be formally recorded in a consent order approved by the court. This legal step secures continued protection well into the future and prevents the risk of future claims against property.

Creating a separation financial survival plan

Strict budgeting becomes necessary during separation. A detailed record of all income sources and essential expenses provides a clear view of the new financial situation. Temporary reductions in discretionary spending can often help maintain stability.

Gathering important financial documentation at the outset supports smoother legal proceedings. Key documents often include bank statements, records for pensions, investment summaries, and property paperwork.

Handling financial ties during separation works best when dealing with joint debts first, since these have the greatest impact on credit scores. Once joint debts are resolved, attention often shifts to covering essential household bills.

Long-term financial recovery strategies

Setting realistic timelines for financial recovery relies on regularly reviewing progress and adjusting goals as circumstances change. Having a written plan helps track each step, including repaying priority debts and rebuilding credit.

After paying for essential expenses, the focus often shifts toward rebuilding savings. Many people establish an emergency fund that covers at least one month of living costs before gradually increasing their savings for extra protection.

Pension planning needs careful management following divorce settlements. Individuals benefit from reviewing projected retirement income and identifying any gaps caused by pension sharing orders. Increasing contributions, where possible, can help address shortfalls.

Insurance requirements frequently change after a separation. Life insurance policies should be reviewed to determine if they remain suitable, particularly where dependants or children are involved. Income protection insurance may be worth considering if others rely on your earnings.

Certain financial matters, such as complicated investment or pension issues, often call for specialist advice. Financial advisers usually help clients through investment decisions, while legal professionals oversee property transfers and formal settlements.

Joint finances decision tree

For positive communication: Gradually separate finances using documented agreements. Create payment schedules for joint debts and maintain regular financial discussions.

For high-conflict situations: Seek immediate legal advice from a specialist family lawyer. Consider freezing joint accounts if necessary to prevent financial loss. Prioritise formal documentation of all agreements.

Where children are involved: Maintain stable housing arrangements. Prioritise financial support centered on children’s needs. Consider using a neutral third party to manage shared expenses.

Managing joint finances during separation requires a method that matches your specific situation. Early organisation during separation sets a base for improved financial wellbeing in future years.

Your Financial Future After Separation

The hidden costs of separation can feel overwhelming, but taking clear, informed steps makes a significant difference. Early planning, organised record-keeping, and professional guidance all play a part in stabilising your financial situation and rebuilding long-term security.

Explore support services, speak with professionals, and take proactive steps to secure the financial clarity you need. With the right strategy in place, you can move forward with greater confidence and peace of mind

June 17th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

A new study has found that home insurance premiums jump by 10% for pet owners – an extra expense that could be overlooked by residents who are budgeting for a new addition to their family. The research reveals that the median cost of joint buildings and contents home insurance is £219 for those who don’t have a dog or cat, while the median for homeowners with a pet costs £240 on average.

The numbers come from Go.Compare home insurance, which reviewed its internal sales figures to uncover the impact of pet ownership on insurance prices. It’s now reminding policyholders to consider this additional cost when deciding whether they can afford a pet.

The insurance comparison site warns that separate buildings and contents insurance policies can have the sharpest rises for pet owners. They will pay a median price of £215 for buildings only cover on average, which is £23 more than the price for those who don’t have a pet – equal to a 12% increase. For contents insurance, the median cost is £72 on average – a 15% increase compared to those without pets.

The figures also suggest that getting multiple pets will result in higher premiums. For joint buildings and contents cover, the median cost for owners of both a cat and a dog is £21 more than those with only one or the other – equal to 9% higher. This is also £35 more than those with no pets at all.

In addition, buildings only cover is £21 more expensive for owners of both pets compared to those with just one, according to the study, rising from a median of £208 to £229 – equal to a 10% rise.

The cost of cover appears relatively unaffected by the type of pet owned. Joint buildings and contents policies are only £3 more expensive for dog owners than cat owners, while the median for separate buildings and contents policies is the same for cat and dog owners. The average premium for both of these sits at £208 for buildings only cover and £71 for contents cover.

Nathan Blackler, home insurance expert at Go.Compare, said: “Getting a pet is always an exciting experience, so it’s easy to get caught up in the moment and forget about the financial aspect. Remember to consider your budget when deciding whether to get a pet, as there are lots of costs you might need to consider, including one or two you might not think about, like home insurance.

“The median home insurance premium can be up to £35 higher for pet owners in some instances. Be sure to take this into account so that you don’t find yourself scrambling to make up for the extra cost.

“If you do take the exciting step to get a pet, you will need to tell your home insurance provider, as failure to do so could invalidate your policy. If prices become a problem, try comparing policies to see if you could get the cover you need for a lower price elsewhere. Regularly doing this will make sure you’re getting the best deal you can, so it’s always worthwhile checking what policies are available.”

More information about the impact of pet ownership on home insurance can be found on Go.Compare’s website.

June 10th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | Press Releases

As wedding season hits its peak, new research1 from American Express shows that 40% of UK wedding guests will attend an overseas wedding in 2025. Brits will attend an average of two weddings either in the UK or abroad, with this number expecting to increase to three weddings in 2026. Londoners and North Easterners are poised for wedding fever in 2025 averaging four weddings this year alone.

Destination weddings are on the rise and Brits are soaking it up. A quarter of those attending weddings abroad say they prefer it as it doubles as a holiday, and this is particularly popular among 18-34 year olds (44%). However, over half of UK adults (54%) still favour local weddings to save on travel and accommodation costs.

Destination celebration!

France has emerged as the top overseas wedding destination, with 26% of guests who are going to destination weddings attending a celebration there in 2025

Top 5 overseas wedding destinations in 20252

France (26%)

Spain (23%)

USA (19%)

Italy (17%)

Canada (15%)

Overseas weddings offer more than just dream destination for the couple. Nearly two in five attendees of destination weddings (36%) see it as an opportunity to visit a new place, while 34% appreciate the better weather. A quarter (25%) enjoy taking a holiday with friends, and a third (33%) plan to extend their trip for a personal holiday.

Points to planes

Wedding guests are also looking to earn something back for themselves, with one third planning to collect loyalty points (28%) or cashback (29%) when attending marriage celebrations in 2025. American Express offers a range of Cards that earn Membership Rewards® points, cashback and exclusive offers. For example, Amex® Platinum  Cardmembers can make the most out of their travel experience with benefits including airport lounge access, travel insurance, guaranteed 4pm check-out, early check-in and room upgrades (subject to availability) and the chance to use Membership Rewards points on travel when booking through Amex Travel Online. T&Cs apply. Amex® Platinum Card has a representative APR variable of 694.9%.

Dave Edwards, Vice President, American Express: “We know our Cardmembers are passionate travellers and like to make the most of the wonderful travel, dining and hotel benefits and rewards on offer.  As the wedding season picks up pace across Europe, our latest research highlights the growing popularity of destination weddings among Brits. Whether it’s a chance to discover a new location, connect with the bride or groom’s culture, or enjoy a holiday with friends, Brits are gearing up to celebrate overseas.”

June 10th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

Sky has emerged as the provider offering some of the cheapest broadband deals out of the major companies, according to a new customer survey.

Among Sky users receiving speeds between 100 and 249 megabits per second (Mbps), a quarter reported paying less than £21 per month – the highest proportion of the providers listed.[1] A fraction of these users (2%) even said they’re charged between £11 and £15.

The figures come from Go.Compare broadband, which surveyed users on how much they’re paying for their packages. It found that the major providers generally charge between £21 and £30 per month for broadband speeds in the 100 to 249Mbps range – the most commonly bought speeds. However, Sky appears most likely to undercut this price.

Virgin Media and Vodafone tied for second place in the survey, with 13% of both providers’ users paying £20 or less for these speeds. The vast majority pay between £16 and £20, although 4% of Vodafone’s users are charged less, and 1% of Virgin Media’s users pay £10 or under.

Around one in 10 (12%) BT customers said they pay below the £21 mark. But, impressively, 4% said they pay just £10 per month or less. Similarly, 11% of EE’s users pay prices under £21, and 6% are in the lowest price bracket of £11 or less – the most of the providers listed.

Virgin Media is the most popular broadband provider

Although Sky leads the way in competitive pricing, it’s not the most popular. Many users preferred Virgin Media, with a fifth of those in the study getting their broadband through this provider.

Sky came a narrow second, with 18% stating that they use this company for their broadband. BT was third with 16%, while EE and Vodafone were joint fourth with 8% of respondents each saying they use them.

Virgin Media also proved the most popular with younger users. A fifth of under-35s said they are with this provider, 5% more than Sky, this group’s next most used company. Over-55s slightly prefer BT over Virgin Media, although the difference is minor – 20% are with BT and 19% are with Virgin Media.

Matt Sanders, broadband expert at Go.Compare, said: “Broadband users will always want a deal with the fastest speeds for the lowest price possible. Our statistics suggest that Sky are providing a high proportion of users with below-average prices for decent speeds, highlighting them as a strong choice for cost-conscious customers.

“But price isn’t the only factor to consider when deciding on the right broadband deal for you. Reliability and good quality customer service are also important. Plus, many broadband deals include extras like TV packages, so while one might be low-cost, another might be better value for money when all the additions are taken into account.

“For this reason, before committing to a package, it’s always a good idea to compare providers to find out which offers the best deal for your needs. Doing so regularly will make sure you’re still getting the best offer possible.”

More figures on the best broadband providers can be found on Go.Compare’s website.

-​​ENDS-

June 6th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

Hampshire Trust Bank (HTB) has launched a new range of market-leading long-term fixed-rate Cash ISAs and savings accounts amid growing uncertainty around the future of tax-free savings allowances.

The new Cash ISA accounts offer a timely opportunity to secure attractive, tax-free means of safeguarding savings at a time of increasing concern around changes to ISA annual subscriptions.

Today, HTB launched market-leading rates across it’s long fixed-term ISA range:

• 4.20% AER – 2 Year Online ISA Fixed Saver
• 4.20% AER – 3 Year Online ISA Fixed Saver
• 4.20% AER – 5 Year Online ISA Fixed Saver.

There’s news for non-ISA personal savers, businesses and charities too, with two new table-topping 5 Year Bonds, helping even more UK savers with their long-term savings plans:

• 4.46% AER – 5 Year Fixed Saver for personal customers
• 4.30% AER – 5 Year Fixed Saver for businesses and charities.

With a minimum deposit of £1, annual interest and unlimited deposits for the first 14 days, HTB’s fixed term savings accounts are designed for savers seeking security and strong long-term returns.

Stuart Hulme, Managing Director of Savings at HTB, said:

“With talk of ISA reforms and growing uncertainty around ISA subscriptions, savers are understandably asking: will what’s tax-free today be taxed tomorrow? Our new long-term ISA rates give people a chance to lock in generous returns – and some peace of mind – ahead of any change.”

HTB’s proactive move comes as industry speculation mounts about potential changes to ISA rules in the Autumn Budget, including possible freezes or reductions to tax-free thresholds.

For further information about HTB and its range of products for personal and business customers, visit www.htb.co.uk