Making Ends Meet as a Single Parent: Tips to Save Money and Keep Life Feeling Normal

Managing finances as a single parent can feel like a juggling act, especially with prices going up everywhere. Between food, clothes, and a few treats for the kids, it’s easy to feel like there’s never quite enough to go around. But even in tough times, there are plenty of little ways to save money that can make a real difference—without missing out on those special moments that matter most.

Start with Smart Food Shopping

Groceries may be pricier, but planning out meals, buying in bulk when it makes sense, and grabbing cashback deals can make a difference. Swapping out packaged snacks for homemade treats, like veggie sticks or muffins, is another easy win that can save money without sacrificing quality. If you’re looking for more ways to stretch your budget, MoneyPlus Advice has some great tips to check out.

Everyday Essentials on a Single Parent Budget

Even daily essentials like toiletries and cleaning supplies can eat into the budget more than you realise. Switching to supermarket own-brands or shopping at discount stores can help you cut costs without cutting quality. Often, you’ll find these products are just as effective as big-name brands, for a fraction of the price.

Affordable Family Fun

For family time, who says you need to spend loads? Check out free local events, take a walk in the park, or spend an afternoon exploring a nearby nature reserve. Kids love an adventure, and a simple picnic or a treasure hunt can be just as fun as a big day out. It’s a great way to make memories without spending much—or even anything at all.

Thoughtful Gifts on a Budget

When birthdays or holidays roll around, it’s easy to feel pressured to go all-out on gifts. But meaningful presents don’t need to cost much. Handmade gifts, pre-loved toys, or treasures from charity shops or online marketplaces can be just as special. And for clothes, secondhand shops and sites like Vinted often have fantastic deals on like-new items, helping you save on essentials without compromising on quality.

Staying Positive Through the Challenges

Money worries can add up quickly, especially when you’re handling everything on your own. It can help to keep kids in the loop in a simple way—like turning budgeting into a team effort. Sometimes, these open chats can make challenges feel a bit lighter and help everyone feel involved, instead of left out.

At the end of the day, it’s not about how much you spend. It’s about the time you share and the memories you create. Whether it’s a movie night at home or cooking dinner together, it’s these little moments that mean the most.

Financial Concerns of Single Parents

MoneyPlus set out to start a conversation around the unique challenges single parents are facing today. To dig deeper, they surveyed 1,000 single mums and dads, giving them a space to share their stories. Their hope is that other single parents reading this will feel less alone, knowing others are going through similar experiences