March 2020

Gas prices are set to fall for just over 200,000 customers in Northern Ireland from the start of next month, as both SSE Airtricity and Firmus Energy have announced price cuts, which will take £100+/year off a typical bill.

British Gas has launched the cheapest big six deal in almost three and a half years, as energy prices continue to fall throughout the market. 

The coronavirus pandemic fundamentally changed the way we live. While the primary concern has always been health, many have struggled - and are still struggling - with financial wellbeing too. Wide-ranging payment holiday help was put in place, but those schemes have now ended. 'Tailored help' is now the order of the day. Our guide tells you what help's still available and how to apply.

Many lockdown restrictions have been lifted or eased across the UK, though some restrictions still remain in places. While the primary concern is health, many have been worried about cancelled events, postponed weddings, shopping and more. This guide looks at your rights if you’ve been affected, including key refund rights.

Halifax is overhauling its popular Reward current account from 1 June 2020, boosting rewards if you can jump through some hoops, including having to tell it which reward you want in advance. But despite the better perks, many will actually be better off switching – read on to find out why. The Halifax Reward account is currently fee-free and offers a £2/mth reward each month you pay in at least £750, pay out two or more direct debits and stay in credit. From 1 June, the cash you can earn with the account is going up, but Halifax is adding a £3/month fee for some and making the criteria for getting the rewards tougher. If you're an existing Rewards customer and you opened your account before 13 March 2020, you have to sign up by this Friday if you want the new rewards – do nothing and you'll instead be automatically downgraded to a new fee-free current account offering no perks. If you opened your Rewards account after 13 March, you have until 12 June to decide whether to opt-in. 

Struggling 'rent-to-own' retailer chain BrightHouse has collapsed into administration after shops had to be shut due to coronavirus restrictions.

Italian-inspired restaurant and deli chain Carluccio's has entered administration, due to problems "exacerbated by Covid-19".

Tens of thousands of UK travellers who are stranded abroad will be flown home thanks to a new Government rescue plan announced today, which will see airlines step up efforts to help passengers and some £75 million spent on special charter flights.

Three major high street retailers have voluntarily closed their online stores in the wake of the UK lockdown to protect staff working in warehouses and distribution centres.

The Government has urged those with imminent house moves to delay their moving date while measures are in place to stop the spread of coronavirus.