Colour: Pick a favourite colour and inject it into the design of each room in your home to create a synergy throughout the house. Emerald green is in at the moment; consider making cushions or buying throws for the bedroom, including green plants in the kitchen and dining room, and updating to green towels in the bathroom.

Flooring: Replace mismatched carpets with laminate flooring which runs through the hallway and into all other rooms for a modern update that will connect your rooms together and create a completely different, contemporary look. Laminate flooring is hard-wearing and available in plenty of colours, so it should survive further re-designs in the future.

Paint: Every room benefits from a fresh coat of paint, even if it doesn’t look like it. Add another coat of your favourite or add a few block-colour statement walls for a new focal point in each room. The wall around a fireplace or the kitchen’s oven is a great way to give your room depth.

Organiser Joe Lesh says the event is ideal for families, with pet care seminars and shows for members of the public, stating that the low-maintenance of keeping a pet makes it the perfect option for all kinds of people.

Looking after a reptile does require a budget put aside to ensure they’re getting everything they need, but it’s more than possible to keep pets happy by making a few smart purchases – for example, buying reptile food in bulk. Doing your research before you adopt a pet is also a good idea, as it will save you having to pay out more in the long-run – always ensure your pet’s enclosure is the right size, and heated properly, to avoid illness which can result in heavy vet bills. This way you can keep your pet happy and healthy – and enjoy the company they offer!

Gifts

Finding gifts can seem like a pain, but don’t forget that V-Day isn’t the biggest event of them all, and if you do want to buy presents it might be wise to agree on a price limit beforehand. Take a look online for the best deals – many high street stores will be inflating their prices on most classic gifts, but by searching on retail websites you can find some great bargains. Check MoneySavingExpert.com for daily deals leading up to the day.

Dining out

If you want a cheap night out, it might be worth joining a diners’ club, which allows you access to special offers and discounts on top restaurants – Lunchalot in Sydney is a perfect example of this, and is currently offering a 30-day trial period using the vouchcode “free30day”. You could also go for a meal you can share, like a good quality pizza in an Italian restaurant, and see if you can find somewhere that allows you to bring your own wine to save even more!

In-ear hearing aids

In-ear devices are surprisingly easy to keep clean, as they’re made to keep out any kind of moisture or build-up. Just avoid any direct contact with fluids, and simply wipe with a damp cloth each night to clean. You might also want to get a wax pick – most in-ear hearing aids have one included – for dislodging anything that gets stuck inside.

Behind the ear hearing aids

These hearing aids have a tube which works around from a device on the outside of the ear, which makes it a little fiddly to keep clean. Soak the tube and rubber cushion each night in hot, soapy water, and wipe the outside of the device itself with a damp cloth. Putting it back together afterwards will take practise, but they’re designed to be as easy as possible so you should get used to it quickly!

Thankfully, there is a solution. While sales on the high street look like a big deal, you might not actually save all that much. Shops have to pay for a number of things to stay open, including rent and bills as well as staff wages and insurance for each branch. When you shop online, you’re usually only buying from one large stockroom, which means that the company’s costs are drastically reduced, and, in turn, so is your shopping bill – just take a look at the average price of a pair of jeans on top online store Fashion World to see the difference.

Another reason shopping online is so much cheaper is that when you’re in a shop you’re more or less a captive consumer. Online, you can jump from site to site, comparing deals as you go, which gives websites great motivation to maintain low, competitive prices! If you’re not sure where to start, take a look at Martin Lewis’ guide to shopping – you’ll find some great tips, allowing you to start saving on your shopping immediately!

GP appointments are of course free, as is information and advice from the NHS. You’re also likely to receive free prescription medication if you’re under 18 or a student – this extends to things like family planning and the morning after pill, and is offered by most chain pharmacies as well as independents and those which are surgery-owned. As well as contraceptives, it is worth bearing in mind that medication administered while in the GP’s office or hospital is free.

For more information about healthcare costs, take a look at the NHS guide, which covers free medications as well as special medical conditions and exemptions to charges. This is well worth taking a look at, especially if you do have a regular prescription, as you could find yourself spending more money than you need to!

Usually, at around this time of year, we’d recommend a little black dress as a cure-all solution to piecing together a party outfit on a budget. This year though, we’re all about block colours, bright prints and showy patterns – the bigger the better!

A brightly-coloured dress can be just as flexible as an LBD – even more so, as you can play with different accessories and additions to create a chic elegance or a clashing combination of bright colours. Bold colours allow you to have fun with your wardrobe, and will make you stand out a mile in a sea of more restrained cocktail frocks. With perfect timing, top clothing line Marisota have just launched a range of bold, bright dress designs, with plenty of plus-size dresses to suit any figure, and even a colour-coded shopping mode. Ditch the dark shades and go bright and bold this Christmas!

Thankfully, there is a solution. Shopping online is not only easier on your feet, but also on your wallet – websites don’t have to pay the expensive overheads that high street stores add onto their prices, and there’s a wealth of plus-size websites to ensure you can find something that’s not only on-trend, but comfortable and designed for your figure. Sites like SimplyBe UK have a beautiful range of party dresses, including the beautiful Peplum Illusion dress, purposefully crafted to accentuate curves and give you a shimmering, sparkling alternative to the classic black shift dress. Dress up and dress down for a Christmas outfit you can wear again and again!

The basics

The essentials of a winter wardrobe are quite simple – cardigans, hoodies, jeans, boots, sweaters and of course a big winter coat. To save money, it’s best to just choose one winter coat and stick with it – something with a removable lining means you can still wear it when the weather is a bit warmer in autumn and spring.

Extras

A couple of good scarves, some nice warm gloves and hats are essential additions to your winter wardrobe. You might also consider cosy ear-muffs – there are some cute and funky styles out there than can really enhance an outfit, as well as keeping your ears warm! Remember that while accessories are usually functional, with a bit of work they can become the centrepiece of your outfit.

• Make your own cat litter. This can be done quite easily by soaking shredded newspaper in soapy warm water, then sprinkling it with baking soda and allowing it to dry – check this guide for more details.
• Make your own toys. Cats don’t know the difference between a toy you’ve made yourself and an expensive shop-bought one – but your wallet will know the difference! Everyday items like toilet roll tubes, socks and bits of string can be turned into durable toys if you’re prepared to get crafty.
• Keep your cat active. Making sure you cat has plenty of opportunity to run around outside (installing a cat flap will let it come and go as it likes) will ensure it stays fit and healthy, reducing expense on your vet’s bills.

• Shop online. You can often get major brands like Nike, Adidas and DC from online retailers like this one for less than you would pay on the high street. It’s also a lot easier to compare prices and stay up to date with the latest deals when you shop online.
• Buy at factory outlets. Places like Street, Somerset are fantastic for budget-conscious clothes shoppers, as they have a large number of factory stores where you can get massive discounts on brand-name clothing.
• Buy out of season. It might sound counterintuitive to buy your summer clothes in the winter and vice-versa, but a lot of people do it because it saves a lot of money! As retailers need to clear shelf space to bring in the new season’s gear, they will often offer large discounts on last season’s clothes.

1. Take a walk. The cold will make us want to stay indoors, but this is the worst thing you can do, even if it seems like the most sensible. Walking gets your endorphins going, and exposes you to more sunlight. Even half an hour a day will make a huge difference.
2. Eat healthily. Yes, we know Christmas is coming, and a healthy diet isn’t at the top of your list of priorities! We’re not saying you should cut out everything you enjoy, but make sure you’re also getting plenty of fruit, vegetables and grains, and drink plenty of water.
3. Sleep properly. Aim for around 7-8 hours per night, in a comfy bed. If dark mornings make it hard to get out of bed in the morning, consider an SAD lamp, which wakes you up slowly with a natural light emitter.
4. Embrace the seasons. Autumn and winter have so much to offer; try to relate them to your existing hobbies. Seasonal foods like squashes and cob nuts are treasures to a keen cook, while craft-lovers have a whole new theme to enjoy working on!
5. Be sociable. Talk to family and friends, as you’ll be surprised at how many people are in the same boat as you. Organise some comfy nights in – or big nights out – so you don’t feel as though your evenings are disappearing too quickly.

If you really feel like you’re struggling this winter, there are plenty of options available. Have a chat with your GP, and look for ways to stay positive, to keep you smiling through Christmas!

Having such a powerful computer in your bag – or indeed, in your pocket – offers a level of convenience never before known. One device can be your main source of communication, your personal organiser, calculator, music player, video game console and even remote control. The apps available through the Apple and Android markets offer hundreds of frugality and efficiency solutions, such as ShopSavvy, which installs a barcode device and allows you to find any item at its cheapest price, or the impressive CookIt, which logs what you have in the kitchen cupboard and finds a recipe for you.

Smartphones are relatively inexpensive, with prices comparable to that of most other phones. You can find a Samsung Galaxy S for as little as £125 online, capable of the same features as more recent devices. If you’re on the lookout for a new phone, smart is definitely the way to go, offering multiple functions in one, and a great gadget to play with!

If you’re changing anything, always make sure to improve the practicality of the room, as well as the design, to make it even more cost-effective. Glass back-splashes behind the oven and sink are a great way of protecting the wall, and make it so much easier to keep clean. Wood flooring looks attractive and is hard and durable, ensuring it lasts you for years to come. Make sure all crockery has somewhere to go – pick up some cheap bowl holders if it won’t all fit in the cupboards, to make it look tidy.

Give the cupboards a fresh coat of paint, preferably one that contrasts with the counter-tops for a kitchen that’s completely on trend for 2013. Hooks on the outsides of doors can provide great storage for everyday items like wooden spoons and sieves, as well as decorative elements, especially if you can’t use wall hangings. Personalise the room, and let the rest of the family chip in, for a kitchen that’s as much of a living area as any other room in the house!

Even if you haven’t done an undergraduate degree in law, it is possible to convert with postgraduate education. This could open up to you positions with the government or a career as an articled clerk, barrister, coroner, judge or solicitor.  Of course, training for this area of work is not easy and getting the best jobs (and in the recession most jobs) is extraordinarily competitive, but if you do find success you can expect to be saving plenty of money in the bank for years to come, according to this research which reveals the average income of law partners

If you don’t want to stop working altogether you could repurpose yourself on your travels, how about setting up your own travel blog? Or getting involved in some volunteer projects abroad? Helping others could give a whole new sense of purpose to your life. Volunteer work is usually viewed favourably by employers too, so if you do decide to re-join civilisation, you can add any skills you gain to your CV and have plenty of adventures to share in interview too. For ideas on what you might do, take a look here.

Following a brief reunion for the Return of the Spice Girls tour in 2007, the girls have led fairly separate lives and followed differing career paths, but now the original buzz is set to be relived thanks to a new musical, which is to show in the West End. According to a report from the MailOnline the show – called Viva Forever! – will use Spice Girls songs to depict a storyline, much in the same way successes Mamma Mia and We Will Rock you have.

So, with 90s Girl Power literally taking centre stage – is it time to get out your tracksuit? It’s possible that former Sporty Spice ‘wannabes’ will be looking at women’s sports ranges to ensure they’ve got their imitation outfits at hand. And, for those who always preferred Ginger Spice (aka Geri Halliwell) it will definitely be time to put those Jubilee tea towels to good use. Of course, this is because Geri’s most iconic outfit – the Union Jack dress she wore at the Brit Awards, was reportedly fashioned out of a kitchen aid.

Down or upgrade your car

Swapping your new car for a smaller second hand model should bring down your fuel consumption and your insurance, but it’s not necessarily the best option for your pocket or the environment in the long term. In fact, those who purchase some of the latest small size cars are rewarded with low or no road tax to pay because of their low emissions. Of course, these models also require less fuel, meaning you should have more spare cash in your pocket.

Try a scooter

Although motorbikes can use less fuel than cars they can still be expensive to run – particularly if they have big engines and high insurance rates. If you want the freedom and (some of) the mobility of a bike, why not try a scooter instead? Far cheaper to run than cars and cheaper insurance to boot (though of course you’ll have no boot).

Sign up for train ticket release emails

When it comes to long distance travel, good planning pays. There are several sites including thetrainline and eastcoast that allow you to register for email alerts that notify you when cheap fares for future travel dates come available. If you have weddings in faraway places to attend or an airport at the other side of the country to get to – these are great tools.

An option that is increasingly used by people trying to pay off debts is an IVA or an individual voluntary arrangement. These are designed to help those struggling with money issues to service the level of debt they can afford to pay and also to reduce the level of pressure from creditors. Though these are popular and often prove effective, many of the money management firms out there will charge for the service. If this is an option you are investigating – try and investigate the free help and advice you can get from people like the Money Advice Trust and Credit Action.

If repossession is becoming a real concern, you may want to look at protecting any equity you have in your home. Speak to your mortgage provider at your earliest opportunity to see if you can’t reduce your payments, or if you do have to sell quickly, seek the help of a property buying firm to help you complete the process fast.

LED lighting

LED lights can be used to create stylish lighting built into the ceiling or walls of your kitchen and give a brilliant bright light.  They are cheaper to run than normal lights and last for years so you can save on time spent replacing them too! For more information, see: here.

Splashbacks

Super stylish splashbacks can be used as a feature in the kitchen, but they’ll also hopefully help you make some savings. They are harder wearing than normal tiles so less likely to need replacing and they are far easier to wipe clean when you are in a hurry.

Linoleum or vinyl

Far cheaper than hard wood flooring, lino or vinyl is quick and cheap to lay and easy to clean. It can also be bought to fit in with your colour scheme and updated inexpensively.

1)    If you really cannot bear to wear a full suit, at least compromise with a blazer or jacket; choose a lightweight material like linen or cotton if staying cool is a priority

2)    A smart polo shirt can look just as smart as a shirt if worn as part of the correct combo, particularly if you choose a plain coloured example from a designer brand.

3)    Chinos can make a great alternative to suit trousers and are far more versatile – meaning you’ll get more bang for your buck if you opt for this lightweight summer failsafe. If you don’t feel confident putting together an outfit around this trouser type, see: here.

4)    Smart shoes can put some men off occasion dressing altogether – formal styles can be very uncomfortable for those who are used to living in trainers and blisters and pinching can result. See if you can’t compromise with a boat shoe or loafer.

Wi-fi printer

Most students find they need to print off notes or research regularly and doing so at the library can add up. Rather than buying a printer each, why not club together to buy a wi-fi printer for your student house? You’ll save both time and money avoiding those trips to the library.

Cafetiere or percolator

Late nights and exam cramming makes coffee a favourite among students and it’s nice to be able to drink good coffee – but the a trip to Starbucks or Costa will cost you a couple of quid each time. Invest in a cafetiere or percolator for your home and you will be able to vastly reduce the cost of good coffee and even be able to prepare it to take with you to lectures.

Projector

Even an Orange Wednesday film night comes with associated costs. Instead, consider getting a projector to use in your living room and treat your friends to cinema nights or watch sporting events on the big screen – all you will need is booze and snacks and of course, they’ll be far cheaper than those at the cinema.

Of course, the denim jeans, top, flat boot and sunglasses Ms Jovovich is papped wearing in the MailOnline article may be designer options, but if you search any online catalogue store you should be able to find far cheaper alternatives. Milla put together the outfit for travelling and playing with daugher Ever Gabo and it ticks all of the right boxes for activity practicality and style.

To help you recreate the look yourself, here’s a shopping checklist:

• Distressed dark denim jeans
• Big dark sunnies
• Flat boots
• Long-sleeved band T-shirt

1)    Shopping locally and seasonally can slash the price of fruit and veg. Visit your local market each week and be prepared to pick up whatever is on offer and turn it into something tasty. Cooking skills will without a doubt help with this, so brush up on your skills and seek advice from healthy eating blogs like the ones listed in this article for ideas.

2)    Give your diet a boost if you can. Some people find attending slimming clubs helps them maintain will power, while others prefer to use chemist approved slimming tablets to kick start them on their weight loss journey. If you are concerned about the cost of joining a club, see if you joining a forum or using a weight loss app like the one offer from myfitnesspal.

3)    Consider different exercise options. Yes, gyms can be expensive, but not all forms of exercise are. Many local leisure centres offer low-priced weekly exercise classes and you can always head out on a bike or for a walk. For more ideas on how to exercise cheaply, see: here.

As a clan, the Kardashian’s offer something for everyone – right from the developing teen styles of Kyle and Kendall Jenner through to the matriarchal look of Kris and the glamour puss look favoured by Kim. The Kardashian girls aren’t short of a curve or two and estranged sister-in-law Kaela Humphries is even a plus-size model, so, this is a look everyone can tap into. Take a look at the tips below and remember if you struggle to find any items in your size, heading to an online plus-size retailer like this one could help.

Tip 1: Don’t be afraid to shine

Bronze and gold shimmer have featured heavily in many of the Kardashian’s red carpet looks. The shades perfectly highlight the girl’s olive skin tones and dark hair and ooze glamour. To try your hand at the same look try and pick out just one metallic shade to play with, make sure your tan is in place and above all – remember the look should be simple and classy.

Tip 2: Embrace your colourful side

Although the girls will often wear monochrome shades when wearing their business hats, they know how to rock colour. Kim and Khloe in particular like to mix cute pastel shirts with jeans for a bit of colourful casual wear.

Tip 3: Small details get you noticed

When she wants to cause a stir, Kim Kardashian lets her outfit choice do the talking. Most recently this meant spelling out who her current man is by wearing earrings featuring his initials. For more, see: here.

The properties that will make you the most money are therefore those that are in a desirable location and will perform to a wide demographic of people. They should also need little work to upkeep to a good standard and be inexpensive to protect with insurance. In years gone by this may have meant targeting the student population with terraced houses available for shares, but the UK rental demographic has changed and there are now far more individuals and families who find themselves within the renting pool.

According to a recent survey carried out by price comparison site MoneySupermarket.com, the average person doesn’t expect to buy a home until they are 37 – far later than previous generations. This means there is an expanding group of young professionals who want to rent affordable properties in convenient locations. Many of these will want to try and save a little towards that future property purchase and with this in mind, high-end living may not appeal to them. That said, if they are working hard to earn their bread and butter, they aren’t necessarily going to want to live in simple and basic housing like students – the secret is therefore to strike a balance somewhere in between.

If you are not in a position where you can quit the day job and focus full time on becoming a hostelier, how about getting involved on a lesser scale and still making some money? If you have a holiday home somewhere in the UK you could investigate letting it out to tourists when you are not using it yourself. This involves a lower time commitment than setting up your own B&B but still provides many of the rewards. You can tailor your décor to the type of clientele you want to attract and if you get it right you should find that visitors book to stay again and again. Of course, this route won’t land you the chance to appear on the Channel 4 programme! 

The star wore a figure hugging black and white number that highlighted her curves and teamed it with matching shoes as she attended the show for Stella McCartney’s Ready to Wear collection at Paris fashion week. She completed the simple but classic look with a smattering of pink lipstick and a little black clutch.

To flatter your curves like Alicia but without splashing on a designer dress, head over to http://www.simplybe.co.uk/. They’ve got a very similar monochrome dress up for grabs, which is available in sizes up to a 32 and an affordable £75. Take a look: here.

The dress is a similar length to Miss Keys and also features black and white panelling and flattering short sleeves. To check out its style credentials, check against the global superstars here.

With debt having such a profound effect on student life, it is time to look for current accounts that offer rewards. Secure Trust Bank have a prepaid credit card scheme that gives you up to 4 per cent cash rewards at a selection of high street retailers, which is perfect for students who are tightening their purse strings.

Students were also revealed to be cutting down on alcohol and spending less money on food. With a prepaid credit card scheme, costs such as these can easily be catered for. The scheme gives you the option to keep money in a current account for essential monthly outgoings, such as rent and bills, and the remaining finances can be put onto a prepaid credit card. This can then be used for non-essential purchases and treats.

If you are a student, these schemes are well worth considering to make the most of your existing finances.

Diesel has also shot up to a record high price at 144.7p per litre, an increase of 0.8p from the previous record. The price of petrol is affected by many global factors, particularly the weakness of the pound, which makes it more expensive to buy in US dollars, and unrest in the Middle East.

With all this in mind, it makes sense to switch to a lower-consumption mode of transport if you have the option. Whether it’s a motorcycle, scooter or hybrid car, the reasons to make the switch become more compelling every time a petrol price announcement like this comes along – so review your options and start saving money today!

Of course, as a nation we are retiring later and later, which means we have busy lives up until we reach those all-important post-work years, but it’s important to squeeze in planning your later life essentials. First up, you should be protecting your health.

You’ll want to take in the sights and sounds of any place you travel to during retirement, so invest in your plans now with regular eye tests and hearing checks, which you can have done cheaply on the high street with names like Amplifon. Taking the time and money to maintain these areas now could mean you get to enjoy a better quality of life as you age and save you money on items like hearing aids and glasses.

Next up is keeping fit. Experts recently warned that the over-70s are becoming too static (see: here) and if you want to have mobility well into your later years and avoid costs associated with carers, it’s wise to put the time and effort in now. This could be as simple as making sure you walk to the shops, or enjoy a leisurely stroll at weekends, or could mean signing up for a fitness class at your local leisure centre.

As well as stocking up on cold and flu defence treatments there are also preventative measures that you can take in your daily life. Recent research has suggested that taking moderate exercise can help boost your immune system and fight off illnesses such as colds. Prof Gleeson, of the Society for General Microbiology and the British Society for Immunology, recently told the Telegraph: ”Research shows that those undertaking regular moderate exercise – for example a daily brisk walk –  can reduce their chance of catching a respiratory infection, such as a cold, by up to almost a third.”

If you are unlucky enough to contract a cold, staying hydrated and getting plenty of rest is always advisable and if you are suffering from aches and pains – investing in cold tablets or drinks that contain paracetemol can help. If your illness lasts more than a few days it is also worth consulting a doctor, as illnesses such as whooping cough that can initially display the same symptoms as the common cold can be problematic.

Setting a realistic budget for your everyday spending at university is essential to keep track of your cash and push those pounds further. Some universities like Middlesex University http://www.mdx.ac.uk/ offer financial help to prospective and current students who are confronted with financial barriers that stop them from going to university. This support comes in a range of grants, bursaries and scholarships; however, it is important to remember that these are usually extremely competitive.

Data, revealed in the Freedom of Information requests by the Press Association, showed that Leeds University raised the most in overdue library fines – more than £1.8 million in the past six years. Imperial College London, on the other hand, raised the least with just £26,703.

If you are struggling to remember when your library books are due and are consequently receiving fines, you might find a diary is a useful investment and it can help you organise your time better.

In fact, if you can amply fill out a bikini like Ms Monroe, or have the bottom to fill out dresses in the same manner as the Hollywood legend you should be proud. It has been widely reported the actress who played the screen starlet in the movie – Michelle Williams – was unable to quite fill the blonde beauties shoes. Apparently lacking the rounded rear of Ms Monroe, Ms Williams is said to have worn padded pants during some scenes to give her a silhouette more like the iconic actress’s.  In addition, it has also been reported that Ms Williams ate what she liked in the run up to filming in order to fill out for the role.

Though Ms Williams gives a great performance in the film, some may question why a curvier actress wasn’t chosen in the first instance. Tales of her padding follow on from controversial reports last year that some plus-size models are asked to pad themselves out with foam in order to achieve a fuller figure.

Among a number of women is the common misconception that you can’t combine style, functionality and affordability – this simply isn’t true. Indeed, it can be false economy to invest in a cheaper, poorer quality coat and you can end up spending more money in the long run on future replacements. What’s more, there is a wealth of online retailers that combine all three features, such as Simply Be, so there is no excuse not to get researching.

Online shopping also provides the perfect platform from which to make your winter wardrobe purchases and allows you to compare product features and prices, making it much easier to find those great deals. It is also handy if you have a specific design of coat in mind, to save you from sifting through rails and rails of coats in the shops. Remember to go for a classic design if possible, and these don’t tend to go out of fashion, therefore you can get more wear with your money.

Originally popularised in the 1950s, the shift has endured as a timeless addition to any wardrobe, and it’s surprisingly versatile – why not have a look at some examples at http://www.bankfashion.co.uk/women/womens-clothing/ and you’ll see what we mean. The real plus of the shift is that is can be worn to nearly anything, whether it’s a day at the office, a night out or a glitzy party. It all depends on what you pair it up with.

For office wear, go with court shoes and a blazer, or add a warm cardigan for those colder days – it’ll still look professional. When it’s time to go out for a night on the town, just remove the blazer and add some heels: leggings are optional, but they keep your legs warm and can help you get away with a shorter dress!

Up to 50 per cent of the money needed to fund repairs will be offered by Sunderland City Council under the initiative, which will be sourced from the government’s New Homes Bonus grant that rewards local authorities for providing more housing, the Sunderland Echo reports.

So far, landlords have applied for licences relating to more than 600 properties, while improvements have been made to more than 170 privately rented homes. The average loan stands at around £5,000, including the 50 per cent contribution towards repair work.

Councillor Thomas Wright, who holds the Sustainable Communities brief on the councils ruling cabinet, said empty properties can be damaging to communities as they encourage crime and urban decay.

“We are committed to helping landlords in Sunderland to bring these empty properties back into use,” he told the newspaper. “An empty property costs more to maintain and improve than one which is occupied.”

According to the campaign group Empty Homes, there are more than 700,000 properties currently standing vacant in the UK that could be used for housing if they were repaired.

Many people with hearing loss are not taking action and one in three people with these problems are too embarrassed to wear a hearing aid and seek help, Female First.co.uk has revealed this month (October 14th). What’s more, having someone see to your ears doesn’t have to cost the earth and when you shop around online this allows you to compare product features and prices so you find the best deals and make the most savings.

Father to TV presenter George Lamb, Larry explained how he himself suffers from hearing loss after contracting malaria in Senegal.

He went on to explain how he felt when he had to come to terms with his hearing loss and urged individuals suffering from the same problem to get a hearing test. Of the cause of his condition he said: “That’s unusual, but no matter how you lose it, the result is a feeling of complete isolation. Everything becomes so much more difficult and there’s a temptation not to bother. It’s easier just to tune out.

“I couldn’t believe that there are four million people in the UK who are ignoring their hearing loss. The solution is out there and it starts with a simple hearing test, which is free. So don’t suffer in silence.”

1)Maximise your income. In addition to any pension funds or investments you have available you may want to realise other assets such as your home and car. It may well be that you will not require your car where you are moving and it would certainly be tricky to relocate it. While some people do like to keep a second home back in Blighty, many choose to downsize to maximise the cash they have to invest in their property abroad. If your home is currently for sale and you are having difficulty selling it, you may want to consider obtaining a quicker sale by selling to a professional property buyer such as http://www.gateway-homes.co.uk to save you time.

2)Tie up loose ends. If you don’t work and aren’t claiming benefits from the government you may overlook the need to inform the authorities of your intention to relocate, but you should let your local council know as well as all of your financial institutions and of course, your friends and family.

3)Get ready to go native. As English speakers we are very lucky that many other countries speak our language well. However, whether you are planning to move to Europe or further beyond it could save you a lot of hassle (and even money) if you learn at least the basics of the local language before you go in order to avoid any potential confusion.

If you are thinking of starting Zumba, you will need to equip yourself with some suitable attire in which to strut yourself in. This must be comfortable, breathable and moisture-wicking as you’ll need to stay as cool and dry as possible to get the most out of your workout. Try tops and shorts and perhaps a hoody to wear after your session, such as those available at http://www.jdsports.co.uk/women/womens-clothing/hoodies/.

If you don’t want to spend money on classes and if you have the self-motivation and determination to Zumba at home, then why not invest in a Zumba video as these tend to be a cheap alternative. If you want to turn your workout up a notch, invest in some basic weights that you can use throughout your session and that are suitable for use in the home.

It can be hard to avoid this scenario – especially if you are on an intensive course and are unable to work during term time to help support yourself, but there are some steps you can take.

Avoiding credit where possible is one of the key rules. Use only what you need when it comes to your overdraft because you will have to pay it back one day. If you are shopping online you may be tempted to take out a creditcard, but there is an alternative. Prepaid creditcards such as those offered here http://www.securetrustbank.com can be used online in much the same way as normal credit cards, but require preloading. You are unable to build up any debt. Relatives may choose to give you a helping hand too by loading money onto the card for you, giving them peace of mind you won’t starve to death when left unsupervised.

If you are thinking of starting Zumba, you will need to equip yourself with some suitable attire in which to strut yourself in. This must be comfortable, breathable and moisture-wicking as you’ll need to stay as cool and dry as possible to get the most out of your workout. Try tops and shorts and perhaps a hoody to wear after your session, such as those available at http://www.jdsports.co.uk/women/womens-clothing/hoodies/nike/.

If you don’t want to spend money on classes and if you have the self-motivation and determination to Zumba at home, then why not invest in a Zumba video as these tend to be a cheap alternative. If you want to turn your workout up a notch, invest in some basic weights that you can use throughout your session and that are suitable for use in the home.

The first frosts are on their way, according to a Daily Mail Report published this month (October, 10th 2011), and homeowners across the country are preparing themselves – and their property – for the big chill. Doing so doesn’t necessarily mean that you need to spend money on expensive heat-generating measures such as a new boiler or cavity wall insulation.

The unique fibre construction of a wool duvet offers a cheap way to keep warm and better still is hypo-allergenic, soft, breathable and moisture-wicking – making it the perfect addition to a bedroom. Wool is also a fantastic insulator and draws moisture away from the body; this moisture then evaporates and releases heat as a result.

Discard expired medications – do not throw or flush them down the toilet. Also, ensure that you have checked all your items to ensure none of them are broken; this includes things like old mercury thermometers, which can be very dangerous and may cause serious harm to a child.

Restock the cabinet with over-the-counter medicines for cold and flu things in particular, and then add other things such as antihistamines, anti-itch creams, sunscreen for snow and the following summer, as well as aspirin, paracetamol and other pain tablets. Specifically tailor it to meet the needs of the family and if there are children around, keep the more serious things out of reach or securely bottled and locked away.

Finally, be sure to stock items that are available for minor injuries. First aid kits should contain all basic items including bandages, cotton, alcohol swabs, antiseptic cream, gauze, tape and scissors.

Holiday cottages are the perfect places to enjoy this because of their rustic charm. While the temperature outside may bottom out, you can always look forward to getting warm in front of an open fireplace when you get back. What’s more, you can really enjoy some of the UK’s best known landmarks at a time when summer tourist blitzes are no longer in full effect.

It’s worth considering some of the other things that go on during these months, too. Guy Fawkes Night, held on the November 5th, makes for an ideal thing to observe for those on holiday. While everywhere will enjoy fireworks and bonfires, people may prefer going to specific events like the one held in the town of Lewes, Sussex, which hosts one of the most spectacular bonfire nights and possibly the UK’s premier fireworks display.

Whatever you do, take it easy – it’s autumn after all, so you deserve to relax in a cottage.

First thing’s first: invest in a sturdy and fashionable winter jacket. Choose a style that looks good on you and not the mannequin, and be sure to buy a coat that is appropriate for weather in your area. Neutral colours work best as neutrals are very wearable and will keep things classy, so aim for black, grey and brown.

From here, buy a versatile hat. Although it’s good if you have access to different styles and colors of hats, having a mainstay will often pull a look together in no time. Purchase a neutral hat that complements your coat for a devastating effect.

Finally, consider adding a scarf. Windy days will remind you just how important one of these can be, so be sure to dress in a way that will protect you from the winter elements. As well as being relatively inexpensive, they can also come in a wide variety of fabrics, styles and colours to inspire a new look in any drab outfit.

The key to achieving a head-turning festive look is to plan ahead. This saves you time and stress faffing around with what to wear on the day; time that can instead be spent on your family and devouring those delicious Christmas treats. The perfect Christmas attire includes both underwear and outerwear; indeed, underwear can determine whether your outfit looks good or not. Well-fitting ‘clever’ underwear can flatten and smooth out your body’s silhouette and help hide some of your festive sins. Having the correct underwear is especially important for evening gowns, which often require a halterneck bra.

Finally, plan your festive schedule and leave yourself enough time to match your chosen outfits with each event in advance. Meanwhile, planning ahead will also allow you to budget much easier. Don’t forget accessories, which can bring an outfit together and are usually relatively cheap to buy.

An integral feature of the trademark ‘Kate look’ is classic garments, including blouses, structured skirts, dresses and trousers. This is great news for voluptuous women who want to draw inspiration from Kate and incorporate it into their office wardrobe, as all of the above fit this kind of working environment perfectly. For example, suit jackets, pencil skirts, and silky tops ooze professionalism and Middleton-chic.

Finally, it is better to invest in fewer, better quality pieces that can easily be matched with each other, as this will create more outfits that can be worn for much longer than cheaper items; and thus has the potential to save you a great deal of money in the long-run.

A navy blazer is the most formal garment to add to a nautical outfit. It can be taken on and off with little problem – it is certainly not necessary, though wonderfully complementary.

Chino trousers and tailored shorts are fantastic things to embrace, too.  Chinos are constantly being applied to a variety of outfit styles and prove that it is no longer jujst jeans that are able to create and complement casual outfits. The nautical staple of tailored shorts can also work well with for bottom half, and with both styles of legwear you should aim for shades in pastels, navy and white.

Striped T-shirts are perhaps the most important investment in the true nautical style, though the pattern should only be limited to this garment. Navy and white-striped offerings are the most effective combination of colours, though others should also be taken into account.

Native American-inspired beachwear designs are all the rage this season – think tribal prints in vibrant and daring colours. This is sizzling trend is bound to get you looking and feeling fabulous, and provides the perfect opportunity to partake in a little style experimentation of your own. A staple for this earthy trend perhaps is a tribal print bikini in dusty orange, purples and blues. Put your own take on the trend with a unique clashing bag and floaty kaftan, and finish off with a practical yet stylish pair of sandals and oversized retro sunglasses.

For more inspiration for your beach holiday look visit http://www.whowhatwear.com/website/full-article/editors-picks-beach-glam/