Djamila Lazri

Djamila Lazri

Djamila holds a Master’s degree in Strategic Business Management, with a strong interest in economics. Passionate about understanding how economic dynamics shape today’s societies, she contributes to Econostrum with insightful articles that explore economic trends through a strategic and analytical lens. Bridging management analysis with economic context, Djamila brings a multidisciplinary perspective that connects financial developments to contemporary geopolitical and business issues.

No New Cost of Living Payments in 2025, but Benefits May Still Offer Relief

Millions could still unlock support despite the end of Cost of Living payments in 2025. Unclaimed benefits may offer an alternative to recent Cost of Living relief schemes.

Miniature shopping cart on headlines concerning cost of living

Extra £3,130 Tax-Free Allowance Available for People With Severe Sight Impairment

Thousands could legally boost their tax-free personal allowance each year without changing jobs or income. Few people know this benefit exists—or that it can even be transferred to a partner.

A Guide Dog Helping a Blind Man

UK Supermarket Ranked Cheapest as Food Inflation Hits New High

Shoppers are turning to the most affordable supermarket options as prices continue to climb. The latest rankings reveal which supermarket offers the best value during a period of rising costs.

Four major supermarket chains in the UK

Cash or Card Only? Why Some Say All UK Businesses Should Accept Cash

Some UK residents still rely on cash for daily transactions, raising concerns about exclusion in a digital-first economy. Lawmakers warn that without safeguards, refusing to accept cash could deepen social…

Paying cash

DWP Attendance Allowance Offers Up to £441 for 48 Health Conditions

Attendance Allowance provides vital financial support to older adults dealing with illness or disability-related care needs. Claimants may receive up to £441.60 every four weeks, depending on the level of…

A person reviews financial documents at a desk with a laptop

Free Driving Lessons Available to PIP and DLA Claimants Through Motability Grant

Eligible PIP and DLA recipients can access up to 40 hours of free driving lessons through a dedicated Motability grant. The programme supports disabled individuals aiming for greater independence behind…

Driving Lessons

Universal Credit Debt Rule Change Gives £420 Average Annual Boost to Over a Million Households

The new 15% cap on deductions aims to ease debt pressure for millions relying on Universal Credit. Families with children are among the main beneficiaries of this policy shift.

A Universal Credit sign is displayed on the window

DWP Confirms Early Payment for State Pensions and Benefits

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced that benefit and state pension payments, including PIP and Universal Credit, will be made early due to the upcoming bank holiday.

The entrance to Caxton House, which houses the Department for Work & Pensions (DWP)

Five Key Financial Changes Coming in May 2025

Key financial changes in May 2025 will impact personal finances, from tax penalties to Nationwide's bonus announcement. These updates are essential for anyone managing their financial planning.

A desk with various financial items

DWP Announces 100,000 Work Placements for Benefit Claimants

The DWP's SWAPs programme exceeded its target last year, providing over 86,000 placements. This initiative aims to reduce unemployment by offering training and work experience.

A sign for the Department for Work & Pensions (DWP)

Slim Chances of Winning Premium Bonds Prizes Revealed

Many savers are finding their chances of winning with Premium Bonds are slim, with the odds standing at 22,000 to one. Despite this, Premium Bonds remain a popular choice for…

A hand holding a "You've won!" letter from NS&I with Premium Bonds prize warrants

Nationwide Launches New Fixed Rate Savings Products for Millions of Customers

Nationwide has introduced new fixed rate savings products, including Fixed Rate Cash ISAs and Bonds, with rates starting at 4.00%. These offerings are available to over 16 million members, starting…

the front of a Nationwide Building Society branch

DWP and HMRC Adjust Benefit Payments for May Bank Holidays

The DWP has confirmed that certain benefits will be paid earlier than scheduled to avoid delays caused by May’s bank holidays. Claimants are advised to check revised payment dates to…

DWP

UK Pensioners Urged to Check Eligibility for Tax Refund Windfall

Many UK pensioners are unknowingly paying excessive taxes on their pension withdrawals due to emergency tax codes. HMRC is working to streamline the process and reduce these overpayments in the…

UK Pensioners

Labour Introduces New Regulations to Prevent Debanking After Nigel Farage Coutts Controversy

The closure of Nigel Farage's account at Coutts Bank raised alarms over debanking and its potential to target individuals based on political views. In response, the Labour Party has introduced…

Nigel Farage Coutts

All the 21 UK Bank Holiday Dates for 2025 and 2026

The Bank Holidays in the UK offer a perfect opportunity for a well-deserved break. Check out the key dates in 2025 and 2026 to make the most of your time…

BANK CLOSED" sign on the window of a bank, likely indicating closure for a bank holiday

Who Qualifies for a Blue Badge Disabled Parking Permit

A sticker displaying "Blue Badge holder" is visible on a car window, indicating that the vehicle is used by or for someone with a Blue Badge permit for disabled parking.

A sticker displaying "Blue Badge holder" visible on a car window

DWP to Make Two Major Changes to State Pension Payments in May 2025

An elderly person’s hands are seen holding an open wallet, with a few coins spread across the table, symbolizing financial management. The image highlights the challenges seniors face in managing…

An elderly person's hands holding an open wallet

DWP Outlines Position as State Pension Nears Personal Tax Allowance Threshold

The rising State Pension is narrowing the gap with the personal tax allowance. Experts warn this shift could affect pensioners' eligibility for key benefits.

Senior Man Saving Money and Putting Coin in Cute Shiny Piggy Bank Standing on Desk

State Pensioners Eligible for ADI Payment After £41 DWP Rule Change

State pensioners who lost their ADI payments after the £41 rule change may be entitled to new compensation. The DWP is inviting eligible claimants to come forward and request a…

Their retirement plan is right on track

South West Water to Pay £250 Compensation After Major Outage

Thousands of homes in Devon faced days without running water after a major pipe burst disrupted supply. South West Water has since pledged financial compensation beyond statutory requirements.

A South West Water engineer works near a service vehicle

HMRC Introduces New VAT Fuel Charges Effective May 1

HMRC’s new VAT fuel charges reflect a shift towards greener vehicle use. Businesses must now factor CO2 emissions into their VAT reporting.

A motorhome drives by a lake and mountains, overlaid with the HMRC logo

Pensioners in Retirement Village Face Sudden TV Licence Hike After Discount Scrapped

Nearly 100 pensioners at St Crispin Retirement Village have seen their TV licence costs surge after losing access to a discounted scheme. The decision by TV Licensing has sparked concern…

Close-up of an official TV Licensing letter, with reading glasses and a pen in the background.

Martin Lewis MSE Explains Vital Small Pension Pots Advice Amid Government Change Plans

Martin Lewis and his MoneySavingExpert.com team explain the upcoming reforms to small pension pots. These changes aim to simplify pension management and reduce administrative fees.

Martin Lewis

Greater Manchester Families to Receive £15 Payments During May Half-Term

Oldham council will distribute additional payments of £60 for the summer holidays and £40 for Christmas to help eligible families. The government's Household Support Fund aims to reduce food insecurity…

Students Inside a Classroom

DWP Attendance Allowance Scrapped and Replaced by Pension Age Disability Payment for Thousands

The Pension Age Disability Payment replaces Attendance Allowance in Scotland, offering support to older adults with disabilities. This change is part of Scotland's efforts to manage its social security system…

An older woman sits at a desk, reviewing documents with a DWP "Department for Work & Pensions" DWP sign in the background.

Sainsbury’s App Feature Allows Shoppers to Earn Bonus Nectar Points

Shoppers at Sainsbury’s can now boost their Nectar points by using a hidden app feature after each purchase. The supermarket's in-app game has been praised for turning everyday shopping at…

A large Sainsbury's supermarket

PIP Increase Schedule for 2025: When Recipients Will See the Full Rise in Payments

PIP provides financial support to individuals living with long-term health conditions or disabilities. The recent changes to PIP rates will affect when and how much claimants receive in their upcoming…

A person holding a pen prepares to fill out a PIP

Labour Maintains Two-Child Benefit Cap Despite Rising Child Poverty Warnings

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) continues to enforce the two-child benefit cap, limiting support to families with more than two children. Critics argue the policy deepens financial hardship…

Children sit on a bench during lunch, highlighting the daily impact of the Two-Child Benefit Cap on family life

Winter Fuel Payments to Decline by 150,000 Amid New Eligibility Restrictions

Critics argue that while targeting support may improve efficiency, it also risks excluding thousands of pensioners who are just above the eligibility threshold and still face rising energy costs.

Winter Fuel Payment form

New Round of Cost of Living Payments Announced for Vulnerable Households

Eligible Blackpool households will receive financial support through the Household Support Fund, with payments ranging from £200 to £300. This initiative, running until March 2026, aims to alleviate the financial…

A person handing over £10 and £20 banknotes, likely as part of a transaction

Nationwide Customers Could Receive £100 Bonus This Summer Under Fairer Share Scheme

Nationwide's Fairer Share scheme has rewarded over three million members annually with £100 bonuses. An official decision on the 2025 payout is expected by the end of May, with payments…

A Nationwide branch storefront featuring a cash machine

Nationwide and HSBC Reduce Mortgage Rates as Affordability Rules Shift

Nationwide has introduced competitive new mortgage rates for both home movers and first-time buyers. The building society’s latest changes reflect a broader shift in lending strategies across the UK.

A Nationwide branch on a British high street, featuring a modern glass frontage and an ATM outside the building.

People Over State Pension Age With Hearing Issues Could Be Due Up To £441 Each Month

More than 9,300 people are currently receiving Attendance Allowance for hearing impairments, yet thousands more could be eligible. This benefit offers vital financial support to help older adults maintain independence…

Behind the ear hearing aid

HMRC Expands Eligibility for £1,200 Savings Boost to 550,000 More People

The Help to Save scheme now allows 550,000 more people to benefit from a £1,200 savings boost. This change helps working individuals on Universal Credit build their financial resilience.

British currency notes and coins alongside official HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC)

State Pension Payments to Increase for 2025/26

The DWP State Pension payments are set to increase, benefiting millions of retirees. This rise comes at a crucial time, as pensioners face higher living costs.

A sign labeled "State Pension" with a jar of coins and a piggy bank

Pension Tax Burden Rises as Frozen Thresholds Hit Retirees Harder

Pensioners in the UK are facing higher tax bills due to frozen income tax thresholds, with some expected to pay nearly £3,000 more over six years. Critics argue this creates…

Two jars labeled "TAX" and "Pension," with coins inside each

Pension Age Disability Payment: A New Benefit for Older People in Scotland

The Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP) aims to offer financial support for older individuals with disabilities, ensuring they receive the assistance they need. This benefit is designed to improve the…

A woman helping an elderly person put on a pair of shoes

UK Ministers Rule Out Scrapping Two-Child Benefits Cap Despite Warnings of Rising Child Poverty

Charities argue that scrapping the two-child benefits cap is the most cost-effective way to reduce child poverty, potentially lifting 350,000 children out of poverty overnight. However, government sources remain firm…

A hand underlining the words "Two-Child Benefits Cap"

UK Households Could Receive £100 DWP Cost of Living Payment

The Department for Work & Pensions (DWP) is offering eligible households a one-time cost of living payment to help cover essential expenses. This payment is part of the government's broader…

the entrance to Caxton House, the headquarters of the Department for Work & Pensions (DWP)

Parents Set to Save £450 Annually With New Free Breakfast Clubs Scheme

The government's Free Breakfast Clubs initiative aims to help working parents by offering 30 minutes of free childcare and nutritious meals. This program is expected to save families up to…

Group of Children Eating at the Daycare

450,000 Pensioners to Miss Out on UK State Pension Increase in April 2025

Campaigners are calling for reform to the State Pension system, highlighting the disparity faced by expatriates with frozen pensions. These pensioners, despite making National Insurance contributions, miss out on annual…

State Pension document with the phrase "State Pension"

Easter Monday 2025 Supermarket Opening Times

Easter Monday brings a mix of opening hours across major supermarkets like Aldi, Asda, and Tesco. Be sure to check local store times to avoid any surprises.

A supermarket aisle with a cart of groceries and a basket of colourful Easter eggs.

UK Supermarket Removes Self-Checkouts, Boosting Customer Satisfaction

Booths, a major UK supermarket chain, has removed self-checkouts from most of its stores, resulting in higher customer satisfaction scores.

Close up of a man at self-service checkout at marketplace.

Reform UK Candidate’s Support for Means Testing Winter Fuel Payments Sparks Controversy

Sarah Pochin's support for means testing winter fuel payments has sparked internal tensions within Reform UK. Her stance contrasts sharply with Nigel Farage's opposition to cuts in the fuel allowance.

British currency arranged on top of a document Winter Fuel Payment.

£425 Cost of Living Payments for East Riding of Yorkshire Households

The £425 payments are aimed at helping vulnerable households cope with the rising cost of living. Applications are open until February 27, 2026, with payments processed within 20 days for…

Miniature shopping cart on headlines concerning cost of living

DWP Urges Pensioners Abroad to Claim Compensation for State Pension Changes

The DWP is encouraging pensioners living abroad to apply for compensation if they were negatively impacted by the removal of the Adult Dependency Increase (ADI). Affected individuals may be entitled…

a document from the Department for Work & Pensions ( DWP )

Government Boosts Savings for Half a Million Low-Income Brits Through ‘Help to Save’ Scheme

The 'Help to Save' scheme offers low-income individuals a 50% government bonus on their savings. This initiative, now extended until 2027, aims to help build financial resilience.

A person adding coins to a jar, with "Help to Save" displayed

Where to Find the Best Fuel Deals in Newport

Discover the best fuel prices in Newport, from affordable petrol to diesel, and save on every fill-up. Check out the latest deals at local stations.

Fuel pumps service station

Rachel Reeves Outlines £50 Billion Pension Investment Plan for UK Projects

Pension funds will be encouraged to allocate a portion of savers' money into unlisted UK assets under a revised investment compact. Reeves aims to align financial returns with national priorities…

Rachel Reeves
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