The first rule for people on low incomes to max the cash is to go through a benefits check. We are entitled to all sorts that many of us don’t even know about. A big one, for example, is help with council tax when we’re claiming Universal Credit. There is over £30 billion of unclaimed benefit, so it’s worth a look. We can visit Turn2us to see what we can claim. If we’re going to claim Universal Credit but feel a bit wary of the online process, LearnMyWay will walk through the process first.

Another way to make cash quick, is to have a clear-out. Remember, one person’s junk is another person’s treasure. There’s a big market for ‘pre-loved’ stuff, whether at car boot sales or online through gumtree or eBay. For those of us with a talent for making things like jewellery, greetings cards or soft toys, get creative. Since lockdown there’s been a shift in the way we shop, and buying second-hand or making your own, has become really popular. We could be selling these online too, check out our how-to guide here.