How to protect your finances during uncertain times

There have been big increases in the cost of petrol and diesel over the last couple of months.

If you need to fill up, you can compare fuel prices using our free Petrol finder tool by entering your postcode or location.

Using public transport is a good way to reduce the amount of fuel you use. If you are disabled or over 60 in Northern Ireland, Scotland or Wales or over 66 in England you might be able to get a free bus pass or Freedom Pass in London to travel for free.

In England, children aged between 5 and 15 will be able to travel for free on participating local buses in August 2026. 

People who get their gas and electricity from a domestic energy supplier and who aren’t on a fixed deal are protected by the Ofgem price cap.

If you’re on a default tariff for your energy, then your bills should remain stable until July. The next price cap is likely to be significantly higher.

The government has announced some support with energy bills that should be available in the autumn. This is likely to be targeted at lower income households. 

There aren’t many fixed deals available for lower than the price cap, but you might still choose to fix your contract to help you know what your bills will be for the next year.

The price of heating oil has gone up by 30% in the past year, and if it’s time to refill your tank, you might be worried about how you’ll afford it.

There is now extra help available through the Crisis and Resilience Fund, which you can access by contacting your local councilOpens in a new window

Conflicts can affect the value of stocks and shares, which you might have noticed if you’ve checked your investments or defined contribution pension recently.

The important thing is not to panic. Take your time and think about your options.

If you are close to retiring it might be a good idea to speak to a financial adviser to talk about your choices, which could include:

• delaying retirement
• phased or partial pension drawdown
• claiming benefits in retirement.

Our experts are also on hand to answer questions about your pension.

You might have seen in the news that mortgage providers have taken some of their best deals off the market. This might be worrying if you’re thinking about getting a mortgage or remortgaging.

The Bank of England base rate stayed the same at the last announcement, so what you pay will not change if you have a variable mortgage.

Rates for new fixed rate mortgages are set by the banks themselves and the deals offered might get more expensive because of global events.

There are lots of things to consider when you’re looking for a mortgage. Our guide can help you understand different types of mortgages and their interest rates.

A mortgage broker can help you find the best deals on the market.

If you have a trip booked to the Middle East, you might no longer be able to go or find travel insurance. 

Find out your rights if your holiday is cancelled or you want to cancel it yourself.

Our cost of living hub can help you make the most of your income, find out if you can claim any payments or benefits and access emergency help.

Use our free budget planner to get an overview of your money and see if there’s anywhere you can make savings.

There have been big increases in the cost of petrol and diesel over the last couple of weeks. 

If you need to fill up, you can compare fuel prices on sites like Confused.comOpens in a new window , PetrolPricesOpens in a new window and the Consumer Council Fuel price checker in Northern Ireland by entering your postcode

Using public transport is a good way to reduce the amount of fuel you use. If you are disabled or over 60 in Northern Ireland, Scotland or Wales or over 66 in England you might be able to get a free bus pass or Freedom Pass in London to travel for free.