Beat the April Price Hikes: Smart Ways to Save and Give Back in 2025

April has arrived with yet another round of unwelcome financial changes, as households across the UK brace for rising costs on essential services. From council tax and water bills to mobile contracts and prescriptions, the impact of the government's recent budget decisions is being felt in real time — and for many, the timing couldn't be worse.

If you’re feeling the pinch, you’re not alone. With so many core expenses increasing at once, it’s no wonder people are searching for ways to stretch their budgets without sacrificing the essentials. The good news is that there are practical, achievable steps you can take to fight back against these rising costs. Whether it’s reviewing your service providers, making use of social support schemes, or simply cutting everyday costs, every small change can make a real difference.

At My Favourite Voucher Codes, we understand the challenges facing households this spring. That’s why we’re committed to helping you save wherever possible — not just through our voucher codes and discount deals, but by supporting UK charities with every purchase made through our site. It’s about finding smart ways to navigate tough times, while still making a positive impact.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key price rises introduced this April and offer expert-backed strategies to help you manage your finances effectively — all while making your money go further for you and others.

The April 2025 Price Rises – What’s Changed?

Council Tax Increases

One of the most immediate and unavoidable changes this April is the rise in council tax. For millions of households across England, Scotland and Wales, bills have gone up by around 5%, with Band D properties — often used as the national average benchmark — seeing an increase of approximately £100 a year. However, depending on where you live, the actual rise could be even higher, particularly in areas where local authorities have faced significant funding pressures.

This increase comes as councils try to manage mounting demands on public services, including adult social care, children’s services and waste collection. While the need for these services is clear, the impact on household finances is undeniable — especially for those already living on tight margins.

The good news is that help may be available. You could be entitled to a discount or even an exemption depending on your circumstances:

• Single Person Discount: If you live alone, you may be eligible for a 25% reduction on your council tax bill.
   
• Low Income or Benefits: If you receive certain benefits or are on a low income, your local council may offer Council Tax Support (also called Council Tax Reduction).
   
• Students and Apprentices: Full-time students and some apprentices are often exempt from paying council tax.
   
• Disability Relief: If you or someone in your home has a disability and your property has been adapted, you may qualify for a reduced rate.
   

It's always worth checking with your local authority to see what support is available in your area. You can do this by visiting the official GOV.UK council tax reduction page or contacting your council directly.

Even if you’re not eligible for a reduction, consider setting up a payment plan or requesting to spread payments over 12 months instead of the usual 10. This can make your monthly outgoings a little more manageable during tougher times.

Broadband and Mobile Price Hikes

Another key pressure point this April comes from broadband and mobile providers, many of whom have introduced mid-contract price increases. These hikes, typically linked to inflation plus an additional percentage, are hitting households with rises of up to 7.9% or more — despite no change in service.

Providers such as BT, EE, Vodafone, and Three have all confirmed price rises based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) plus a set amount — a practice that has become increasingly common in the industry. This means that even customers still within their original contract period are seeing higher bills, with little warning and limited recourse.

The best defence against these increases is to review your contract terms now. Many people don’t realise that they may be able to leave their current deal without penalty if they haven’t been properly notified or if the rise exceeds certain thresholds. It’s worth checking the small print or contacting your provider directly.

Here are some practical steps to help manage and reduce these rising costs:

• Check your contract end date: If you’re out of contract, you’re likely paying more than necessary. Switching can bring significant savings.
   
• Use comparison sites: These can help you find cheaper deals quickly, and often highlight introductory offers you might not find by going direct.
   
• Use voucher codes: Discount codes are increasingly available for broadband and SIM-only mobile deals, allowing you to cut upfront costs or benefit from cashback or free months. Sites like My Favourite Voucher Codes can help you access these savings while supporting UK charities.
   
• Bundle services: If you're paying separately for broadband, TV, and mobile, consider bundling services through a single provider — but only if it reduces your total monthly cost.
   

If you're in financial difficulty, speak to your provider about a social tariff. These low-cost broadband deals are available to people on Universal Credit and other benefits, and can reduce your bill to as little as £10–£20 a month.

Staying on top of your broadband and mobile bills isn’t just about shaving off a few pounds — it’s about ensuring you’re not paying more than you should in the middle of a cost of living squeeze.

Higher Water Bills

Water bills have quietly crept up again this April, adding to the growing list of essential services costing more in 2025. According to industry estimates, the average UK household will see an increase of around £27 per year, although the exact amount varies by region and supplier. These increases are largely driven by the need for ongoing infrastructure improvements and investment in water quality — but for consumers, it’s yet another pressure point on already-stretched finances.

Unlike energy or broadband, you can’t switch water suppliers — but there are still practical steps you can take to reduce your bill.

Here are some useful ways to save:

• Request a water meter: If you live alone or in a small household, you could save money by only paying for what you use. Many water companies will install one for free and allow you to switch back within a year if it doesn’t work out.
   
• Use water-saving devices: Many providers offer free tools like tap aerators, cistern bags, and shower timers to help you reduce water usage without noticing much difference in daily life.
   
• Fix leaks quickly: A dripping tap or leaking loo can waste hundreds of litres a day. Prompt repairs can prevent those small problems from becoming costly.
   
• Shorten showers: Reducing shower time by just a couple of minutes can save both water and energy — especially if you’re heating it with gas or electricity.
   

Support if you're struggling:

If you’re on a low income or receive certain benefits, you might be eligible for help through schemes like:

• WaterSure – caps your bills if you use a lot of water for medical reasons or have three or more children under 19 living at home.
   
• Social tariffs – some water companies offer lower rates for households in financial difficulty. These vary by region, so it’s worth contacting your supplier directly.
   

To find out what’s available to you, visit your water company’s website or check with CCW (Consumer Council for Water) for impartial guidance.

In a year where every utility bill seems to be creeping upward, taking a few simple steps to reduce your water usage can go a long way — especially when paired with other cost-cutting strategies.

Energy Costs: Lower Price Cap, Higher Standing Charges

There’s been some confusion around energy bills this April. While Ofgem’s price cap has technically fallen — bringing average annual bills down slightly — many households will see little to no real difference in their costs. That’s largely due to the stubbornly high standing charges, which remain in place regardless of how much energy you actually use.

As of April 2025, the energy price cap has dropped to around £1,690 per year for a typical dual-fuel household paying by direct debit. However, this figure assumes typical usage — and with unit rates still relatively high and standing charges fixed, those using less energy may feel little benefit.

For many, it’s a frustrating scenario: using less doesn’t always lead to a smaller bill. But there are still effective ways to manage your usage and reduce your monthly outgoings.

Practical ways to save on energy:

• Turn down your thermostat by just 1°C – This small change could cut your heating bill by up to 10%.
   
• Use appliances efficiently – Only run dishwashers and washing machines with full loads, and use eco settings where available.
   
• Block draughts and improve insulation – Even basic measures like draught excluders and thermal curtains can reduce the need for heating.
   
• Switch off standby – Turning off appliances at the plug can save an average of £50–£60 a year.

Support available if you’re struggling:

There are several schemes designed to help low-income or vulnerable households manage their energy bills, including:

• The Warm Home Discount – A one-off payment of £150 towards your electricity bill for eligible households.
   
• Cold Weather Payments – Available during periods of severe weather for people receiving certain benefits.
   
• Hardship funds – Most major energy suppliers offer grants or support schemes for customers in financial difficulty.

It's also worth checking whether you're eligible for your supplier’s Priority Services Register, which offers additional help to customers who are elderly, disabled, or have young children.

Even though you can’t escape standing charges, you can still take back control of your energy use. Combining smarter habits with available support schemes can make a meaningful difference — especially over the course of a year.

Prescription Costs and NHS Charges

For those relying on regular medication, the April rise in prescription charges is another unwelcome development. From 1st April 2025, the cost of an NHS prescription in England has increased by 25p, bringing the total to £9.90 per item. While the rise may seem modest on paper, it adds up quickly for anyone who requires multiple prescriptions each month — and it’s yet another essential cost climbing during a time of financial strain.

These charges only apply in England — prescriptions remain free in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland — but for millions of people in England, particularly those with long-term conditions, the financial burden is all too real.

Ways to manage prescription costs:

• NHS Prescription Prepayment Certificates (PPCs):
  If you need more than one item a month, a PPC can offer significant savings. A three-month certificate costs £32.05, and a 12-month one is £114.50, covering all your prescriptions within that period — effectively capping your costs.
   
• Medical exemptions:
  You may qualify for free prescriptions if you have certain long-term health conditions (e.g., diabetes, epilepsy, cancer treatment) or if you’re pregnant, under 16, over 60, or receiving qualifying benefits. It’s worth checking if you’re eligible via the NHS website.
   
• Low income schemes:
  If your household is on a low income, you may be eligible for the NHS Low Income Scheme (LIS), which can help with prescription charges, dental costs, eye tests and travel to medical appointments.
   
• Ask your GP or pharmacist:
  In some cases, over-the-counter medicines may be more affordable than paying for a prescription — particularly for mild conditions. It’s always best to seek professional advice before making a switch.
   

Prescriptions are a healthcare necessity, and no one should have to choose between medication and other essentials. Make sure you’re not paying more than you need to — and if you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to explore the support that’s out there.

TV Licence and Vehicle Tax Rises

Two other everyday costs that have gone up this April are the TV licence fee and Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) — better known as car tax. These might not be the first things you think about when reviewing your budget, but they can have a noticeable impact over the course of the year, especially if you're already stretched.

TV Licence Fee:

The annual cost of a TV licence has increased from £159 to £169.50 — a £10.50 rise. While this covers live television and BBC iPlayer content, it’s worth reassessing whether you actually need a licence at all.

You do not need a TV licence if you:

• Only watch on-demand content (excluding BBC iPlayer)
   
• Do not watch or record live TV on any channel or service
   
• Stream content solely through platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, or Disney+
   

However, be cautious — watching or recording live broadcasts without a licence, or accessing BBC iPlayer without one, is against the law and could result in a fine.

Discounts and exemptions are available too:

• Over-75s receiving Pension Credit may qualify for a free licence.
   
• Visually impaired individuals can apply for a 50% discount.
   
• Care home residents and people over 60 in sheltered accommodation may also receive concessions.
   

More details and application forms are available on the official TV Licensing website.

Vehicle Excise Duty (Car Tax):

VED has also gone up, with the amount depending on your vehicle’s CO2 emissions and date of registration. Most cars registered after April 2017 are now subject to a flat standard rate — but cars with higher emissions will continue to attract higher first-year rates, which have also increased.

Key things to note:

• Electric vehicles (EVs) remain exempt from VED until April 2025, when charges will start to be introduced.
   
• Owners of older, more polluting vehicles will see the sharpest increases.
   
• Paying annually in one lump sum is usually cheaper than paying monthly or every six months.
   

You can check your specific vehicle’s rate using the DVLA’s vehicle tax checker.

With both the TV licence and car tax, it’s worth reviewing whether you’re paying unnecessarily, eligible for a discount, or due for a more efficient alternative. A little planning can go a long way toward keeping your annual expenses under control.

Practical Money-Saving Moves You Can Make Today

Review and Switch Your Providers

One of the most effective ways to take back control of your household finances this April is by reviewing the services you already pay for — particularly broadband, mobile, and energy — and seeing whether you're getting the best deal. Many people stay on the same tariffs out of convenience, but the reality is that loyalty rarely pays when it comes to utility and telecoms contracts.

Why review now?

With mid-contract price hikes becoming increasingly common — especially from broadband and mobile providers — there’s every reason to check whether you’re being charged more than necessary. If your fixed deal has ended, you’re likely being moved onto a standard (and more expensive) rolling tariff without realising it.

What to do:

• Start by gathering your recent bills: Check what you’re paying for each service and when your contract ends. This gives you a clear baseline for comparison.
   
• Use comparison sites: Websites like Uswitch, Compare the Market, and MoneySuperMarket allow you to check what’s available in your area and highlight better deals.
   
• Don’t forget voucher codes: When switching providers or signing up for a new service, look for voucher codes that can knock money off the upfront cost, offer cashback, or give you bonus extras. At My Favourite Voucher Codes, we highlight the best deals while also donating 20% of our profits to UK charities — meaning your savings can go even further.
   
• Contact your current provider: Once you’ve found a better deal, try negotiating. Let them know you’re considering switching — they may offer a better rate to keep you.
   

For energy:

Switching used to be a sure-fire way to save, but the current energy market remains more limited. However, some fixed tariffs are starting to return, so it’s worth checking your supplier’s website or a trusted comparison tool to see if a more stable rate is available. Also consider whether your current tariff suits your usage and household size.

Consider bundling:

If you’re paying separately for broadband, landline, mobile and streaming services, a bundled deal could reduce your total costs. But make sure the bundle includes only what you use — avoid paying extra for services you don’t need.

In uncertain times, staying passive with your bills can cost you dearly. By taking an hour to review your providers and explore alternatives, you could save hundreds over the course of the year — and it’s one of the easiest money wins available.

Budget Smart with a Fresh April Review

With so many essential costs climbing in April, this is the perfect time to take a fresh look at your personal budget. It doesn’t have to be a complicated process — and you don’t need to be an expert with spreadsheets. A simple, honest review of what’s coming in and what’s going out can help you stay on top of your finances and regain a sense of control.

Why review your budget now?

April’s price rises — from council tax to mobile bills — mean that your regular outgoings may have changed without much warning. If your budget hasn’t been updated to reflect these changes, you could find yourself falling behind or dipping into savings unnecessarily.

How to do a quick and effective budget review:

1. Track your income and fixed outgoings
   Start with your total monthly income, then list all your essential bills — rent or mortgage, council tax, utilities, food, travel, and minimum debt repayments. Update figures where charges have increased this month.
    
2. Review discretionary spending
   Next, take a look at where your remaining money goes. This includes takeaways, subscriptions, shopping, and hobbies. Be honest with yourself — spotting patterns is key to taking control.
    
3. Prioritise your spending
   If your expenses are outweighing your income, look at what can be trimmed back temporarily. Could you pause a streaming service? Cut back on eating out? Use voucher codes when shopping online to get more value for money?
    
4. Use budgeting tools
   There are plenty of free tools that can help — including apps like Emma, Money Dashboard, or the MoneyHelper Budget Planner from the Money Advice Service. These can automate tracking and show you exactly where your money is going.
    
5. Create space for savings, even small ones: 
   Even saving £5–£10 a week can build up over time and help cushion against unexpected costs. Set up a standing order into a savings account if possible — out of sight, out of spend.
    

Make it a habit, not a one-off

Budgeting isn’t just about cutting back — it’s about making conscious decisions that give you more freedom long-term. By doing a monthly check-in, especially after seasonal changes like April’s price rises, you can stay in control and avoid surprises later in the year.

And remember, using voucher codes when shopping — from your weekly grocery delivery to household essentials — is a quick and easy way to free up cash without giving anything up. At My Favourite Voucher Codes, those savings come with the added bonus of supporting UK charities each time you use a code.

Check for Benefits and Reductions You Might Be Missing

In times of financial pressure, it’s easy to assume you’re already claiming everything you’re entitled to — but that’s not always the case. Every year, billions of pounds in benefits and support go unclaimed in the UK, simply because people don’t realise they’re eligible.

Whether you’re in work, receiving a pension, or between jobs, it’s well worth checking again — especially now that April’s cost of living increases have taken effect.

Common forms of support that are often missed:

• Council Tax Reduction
  If you’re on a low income, claiming certain benefits, or live alone, you could get a significant discount on your council tax — sometimes up to 100%. Each local authority has its own criteria, so visit your council’s website to apply.
   
• Social Tariffs for Broadband and Mobile
  Several providers offer discounted rates for customers on Universal Credit or other benefits, with broadband deals starting at around £10–£20 a month. Ofcom provides an up-to-date list of available social tariffs.
   
• Water Bill Help
  As mentioned earlier, schemes like WaterSure or other social tariffs can lower your bill if you're on a meter and meet certain conditions — such as having a large family or specific medical needs.
   
• NHS Low Income Scheme
  This can help with prescriptions, dental treatment, eye care, and even travel to hospital appointments if you’re on a low income but not receiving certain means-tested benefits.
   
• Warm Home Discount and Energy Grants
  Beyond the Warm Home Discount (£150 off electricity bills), many suppliers offer their own hardship funds. These can help cover arrears or unexpected usage spikes.
   

How to check what you might qualify for:

Use a free, trusted benefits calculator. Good options include:

• Turn2Us
   
• EntitledTo
   
• Policy in Practice
   

These tools ask a few questions about your income, household, and living arrangements, then show you which benefits, grants or reductions you could apply for — often in under 10 minutes.

Don’t leave money on the table

Claiming support isn’t a failure — it’s about making sure your household is getting the help it needs to get through challenging times. With so many systems now online and automated, the process is faster and more accessible than ever.

Even if you think you’ve checked before, it's worth another look this spring. Circumstances change, thresholds shift, and new schemes appear. A quick check could reveal savings you didn’t know you were missing — and every little helps when costs are climbing.

Save Money and Support Charities at the Same Time

Cutting costs doesn’t have to come at the expense of doing good. In fact, it’s entirely possible to save money and support charitable causes at the same time — and that’s exactly the principle behind My Favourite Voucher Codes.

When you shop online using one of our voucher codes, you’re not just getting a discount on your purchase — you’re also contributing to UK charities at no extra cost to you. We donate 20% of our profits every single month to a nominated UK charity, chosen by our users through a monthly vote.

Here’s how it works:

1. Browse the site for voucher codes across major retailers and service providers — including fashion, groceries, travel, electronics, and household essentials.
    
2. Use a code to save money on your purchase as normal.
    
3. Your use of the code helps generate a commission, and we give 20% of that back to a UK charity.
    

It’s a simple, effective way to stretch your budget while still supporting the causes that matter. Over the years, we've supported charities tackling homelessness, mental health, disability support, cancer care, and more.

For example, in previous months we’ve raised funds for:

• Mind – helping people experiencing mental health difficulties.
   
• Shelter – supporting individuals and families facing housing insecurity.
   
• Blue Cross – providing care and rehoming for animals in need.
   

Every code used on our site helps fund this charitable work, meaning that your everyday spending can have a wider social impact — all while helping you save on the essentials during a challenging time.

When every penny counts, it's good to know that your money can do more than one job — helping both your household and someone else's. That's the heart of what we do at My Favourite Voucher Codes.

Don’t Face the Cost of Living Crisis Alone

When bills go up and wages don’t stretch as far, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed — or even ashamed. But the truth is, millions of people across the UK are facing the same challenges this April. Rising prices on everyday essentials aren’t a sign of personal failure — they’re the result of widespread economic pressures, and they’re affecting households up and down the country.

The most important thing to remember is that you don’t have to deal with it alone.

Support is out there — and it’s okay to ask for help:

If you’re struggling to pay for essentials, cover your rent or mortgage, or keep on top of your bills, there are organisations offering confidential, impartial advice. These include:

• Citizens Advice – Free, local guidance on benefits, budgeting, and debt.
   
• StepChange – A debt charity offering tailored debt management plans.
   
• National Debtline – Practical advice on dealing with creditors and setting up repayment plans.
   
• Turn2Us – A trusted tool for checking benefit eligibility and accessing grants.
   

Talking to someone can be the first step towards regaining control — and you might find support options you didn’t know existed.

You’re doing better than you think

Even taking small steps — reviewing your bills, checking for discounts, or using a voucher code to reduce your weekly shop — is progress. Every decision you make to improve your situation counts, and over time, those decisions add up.

Don’t compare yourself to others. Focus on what you can do, today, to make things a little easier. That might mean switching providers, checking your benefit entitlements, or simply adjusting your monthly budget.

Most importantly, know this: you’re not the only one going through it — and there is help, hope and support available, however tough things feel.

Final Thoughts – Fighting Back Starts with a Click

As April's price rises take hold, it’s understandable to feel disheartened — but now is the time to act, not freeze. Whether it’s cutting back on rising bills, reviewing subscriptions, or claiming support you’re entitled to, the power to improve your financial situation starts with one simple step.

It doesn’t have to be overwhelming. You could begin by:

• Checking your council tax band and eligibility for reductions
   
• Seeing if your broadband or mobile provider is overcharging you
   
• Comparing energy deals or switching to a more suitable tariff
   
• Using a voucher code to save money on your next weekly shop
   

Each of these steps, small as they may seem, can lead to significant savings over time. And when you use My Favourite Voucher Codes, those savings go even further — because every code you use helps support a UK charity in need.

In a time when many are tightening their belts, this kind of dual impact matters. You're not just making your money go further — you're helping others do the same. It’s a rare chance to turn everyday spending into something that benefits your household and your community.

So don’t wait for things to get easier — take control today. Start with one change. One review. One voucher code. Every positive step makes a difference.

by Julian House 3rd April 2025