IDEAL HOME’S COLUMNIST AND EDITOR OF MONEYWEEK.COM KALPANA FITZPATRICK SHARES HER FINANCIAL WISDOM

Q I’ve tried the 50/30/20 method of budgeting, but found it too difficult. Is there an alternative? A50/30/20 budgeting involves allocating 50% of your income to essential spending like rent and food,

Q I’d like to help others this Christmas but my budget is limited. Do you have any tips? A There are lots of ways to help others that don’t involve money. Are there any local charities near you lookin

Even the swankiest islands have a scattering of smaller, more affordable stays – if you know where to look. Luckily, Lucy Thackray does

(whatever your budget!)

Whether you want to pick up a new skill, hit reset on your health or finally write that novel, these opportunities will help to make 2026 your best year yet…