A bargain-hunting mum who cleared £40,000 worth of debt has shared how she budgets for her own 'fun fund' - as she thinks parents don't treat themselves enough.
Maddy Alexander-Grout, from Southampton, previously cleared her debt with yellow sticker shopping, and she now uses 'cash stuffing' to save up money to enjoy.
Keen to help others, the mum-of-two has shared how she uses the method to indulge in self-care guilt-free.
With her fun fund, Maddy has enjoyed all sorts of new experiences, as she uses the money to pay for a variety of things including massages, beauty treatments, and beauty products, plus trips to festivals, gigs, and days out.
Talking about her finances, Maddy said: "I haven't always been into money saving, however, I wracked up around £40,000 debt and to pay it off had to become more frugal with my spending.
"I then decided that I never wanted to buy anything again unless it was discounted, and I've been doing that ever since."
Explaining the extent of her struggles, she added: "There was some really low point during this time of trying to pay my debt off where I'd avoid eating as it was cheaper, but I have become a super savvy saver and discovered ways to indulge in myself without overspending and feeling guilty."
Fortunately, she's since cleared her debt, and she's keen to encourage other mums. For Maddy, cash stuffing is a brilliant method to save money without worrying about overspending. She also declutters a section of her home each week, then sells any suitable items on Facebook to add money to the fund.
"I started cash stuffing where I take out £100 each month and keep it for my 'fun money.' It's my self-care fund and I am always topping it up.
"Whenever I sell anything on Facebook, I top up my fun fund. I spent this money on myself, whether it be going to the pub, a festival or gig ticket, a beauty treatment or hair and makeup products, I can do so without feeling guilty.
"As mums, we never put ourselves first or treat ourselves because we are too busy too after everyone else and putting them first.
"Having this system in place means that I can indulge in self-care and the things I enjoy, without worrying that I am taking away from anything else."
She added: "It's a nice feeling knowing that I can support myself and my kids, while doing the things I love, without dipping into my wages.
"I currently have £300 in my fun fund. Even though we're mums, it's important to do the things that we enjoy too."
Maddy also helps other parents manage their finances with tips on her MadAboutMoney website and TikTok page.
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