Amy James is fighting back as her energy bills shoot past £500 a month, and all her other household bills rise, too.

“We are increasing payments and direct debits on our utility bills, to ensure we have a buffer for the colder months,” says Amy, 33, who lives in Barry, South Wales, with her partner and two-year old daughter.

They have been forced to cut back on the amount they pay into their savings account each month, but hope to make this good later when things are easier. 

“We are focusing hard on our food shop budget, using offers and deals and making some tactical swaps to cheaper brands.”

She mostly shops at Sainsbury’s, and collects Nectar points. “This year I’ll collect about £325 to spend through Nectar. I’ll save most of that for when Sainsbury’s offers its double Nectar week, usually in November, when they will be worth £650.

“That money will go towards presents, Christmas food shop and other household items we may need.”

Sainsbury’s is yet to announce this year’s Double UP dates, but the last pre-lockdown promotion in 2019 ran from November 13 to November 19. “I expect similar dates this year,” Amy says.