EE FR

CRAIG
PhILLIPS
DIY? You CAn FIx It!
Get inspired with our real-life DIY stories!

IY SPECIAL D

Quids in!
www.yourquidsin.com www.yourquidsin.com

ISSuE 12 Autumn 2011

InSIDE!
Spending Saving Borrowing Earning
Advice on:

People call me tight, but Im saving cash!

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vouChERS FoR DuLux DECoRAtoR CEntRES

20% oFF!

BRIGht IDEAS

Gadgets to keep your home safe for less

BuDGEt BootCAmP
the dos and donts of DIY on a budget

Autumn recipes

Q uic k a nd e asy

Gills

your money Be informed Take conTrol

hat better way to prepare for the winter hibernation than by sprucing up the nest a bit. DIY isnt for everyone, and I know from bitter and costly experience that its important to know your limits. But a little confidence can go a long way. In these gloomy times, giving your home a fresh lick of paint can really lift your mood just look at the smiling faces of the people from Fab Pads on page 5! There are DIY tips galore throughout this issue of Quids in! (check out the contents box to see the full list of features). And if we inspire you to indulge in a bit of DIY, why not let us know how you get on? I guess the message this issue is that there are things we still need help with from the government. But there are also things we can do for ourselves. And a little bit of DIY can make us all feel happier!

AuTumn 2011

welcome

Quids in!

ConTenTS 04 reAl lIveS 06 ToP TIPS

Get inspired to do it yourself with our real life stories Gadgets to keep your home secure for less than 10

07 budgeT booTcAmP 08 In The know

Quids in! shows you how to be a DIY hero! Craig Phillips shares his DIY secrets and top tips

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Jeff Managing editor

Quids in!

Address 3 monmouth Place, Bath, BA1 2AT. Tel 01225 319799 website www.faragherjones.com Published by Faragher Jones, Social Publishing Project managing editor Jeff mitchell email editor@yourquidsin.com editor Leaonne Hall email leaonne@faragherjones.com Sales Rhiannon mcnamara email sales@yourquidsin.com In association with

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Quids in! makes every effort to ensure content is correct at the time of going to print. Readers should take specialist advice where necessary. Quids in! has no political allegiances, and opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher or editor.

Dulux Decorator Centres are on hand to provide you with the paint, wallpaper and equipment you need. And our Quids in! readers can claim a discount too.
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Quids in!

news
g The latest news affectin you and your money

IN BRIEF

news

safe as houses?
according to recent research, 670,000 social housing tenants will be affected if the Governments proposed welfare Reform Bill goes through parliament. The idea is that from April 2013, people of working age who live in houses larger than they need will have to move to somewhere smaller or make up the extra for rent because their Housing Benefit will be based on a smaller property. Welfare rights groups fear that if there are not enough smaller properties to move into, people on low incomes may fall into arrears or face eviction. The government plans to increase Discretionary Housing Payments, which Local Authorities can use to help those most in need to meet the shortfall, but this cant help everyone. April 2013 is also when a benefit cap is planned that will limit the amount of benefit one household can claim. This cap will be based on the average income of a working household, estimated to be 500 a week. If the total benefits claimed by

Working age tenants in social housing warned to plan ahead 18 months before planned cuts to housing benefit

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By Karen Holmes, Welfare Benefits Specialist, Turn2us

people in one household is above this threshold, the difference will be taken off Housing Benefit. The DWP estimates that about 50,000 households will be affected, losing an average of 93 a week.

Bankers have said they will no longer be axing cheques in 2018. Research by charity Age UK revealed that 73% of older people still use cheques. The decision has come just weeks after Mark Hoban, the Financial Secretary to the Treasury, said cheques could not be scrapped until a suitable alternative is found. Michelle Mitchell, from Age UK, said: We are delighted the Payments Council has listened to the many people who said how difficult the loss of cheques would be for them. This is a vital first step that will help many older people.

cheque it out

Quids in! says

The Government has to make cuts, so people who may be affected must try to get expert advice and plan ahead. To check that youre claiming all your benefits, see the Benefits Checker at www.turn2us.org

fuel fix
new figures show that in 2009 there were 5.5 million UK households struggling to pay their fuel bills. This is an increase of one million since 2008. Despite these shocking stats energy companies continue to increase their prices. Scottish Power recently said they are increasing gas bills by around 19% and electricity bills by 10%. Many other companies are expected to do the same. Gillian Guy, Chief Executive of Citizens Advice warned: Living in a cold home has a devastating impact on peoples physical and mental health. With energy prices continuing to rise the Government urgently needs to take action to improve the energy efficiency of peoples homes so that they are cheaper to heat. If you are worried about the price of energy bills, or if you need help to pay your bills, see page 6.

hope for the future savers

a shocking report into the state of the uKs finances has shown that 3.2 million households are either three months behind with a debt repayment or are facing a debt action. Sadly, a further three million people are struggling to make ends meet. More than four million have no savings. Lord Stevenson, Chairman of debt watchdog CCCS said: Our data reveals the stark realities faced by many people who struggle to make ends meet. Its important the government and financial and charitable organisations act. Steps are being taken to try and support those on low incomes. The Social Market Foundation said a new no-lose lottery and savings smartcard should be introduced to help people to save. Reforms are also going through parliament to make it easier for people to use Credit Unions. The changes will let credit unions offer services to

Recent figures show that growing numbers of people are struggling to stay out of debt, but there is hope as a recent report shows

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community groups and extend services to new customers such as housing association tenants and employees. Find out more from credit union association ABCUL (0161 832 3694; www.abcul.org).

Quids in! | 

t hands Ge
real-liFe story
ow how? Or Want to fix that leaky tap but dont kn ? Quids in! maybe you fancy a new pair of curtains ople whove shares some inspiring stories from pe h DIY learnt how to glam up their pad throug

or many people, the thought of carrying out repairs on their house is a scary one. Something as simple as a leaky tap may get you ringing your landlord or the plumber and can cost you money and time that you dont have. Albert never thought hed be able to decorate his own flat. But when he signed up for a course on interior decorating, he realised its actually much easier than he thought. Plus he learnt loads of new skills! I never thought I could produce the work I have done on this project. I would always go out to buy items for my home but now working with my designer, I can see the benefits to making my own stuff. I am getting designs to suit my taste and I am saving money too! So how do you go about learning how to Do It Yourself? There are plenty of courses available out there (see our Useful Contacts box). The courses help you learn new skills, save money and let you make your house your own.

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house: I cant believe the things Ive made so far. I love every minute of it! I was really afraid to use the sewing machine at first, but after trying a few small items, I felt confident enough to make my own bedroom curtains. I love them! Now Im making cushions for my son and I am learning new skills like zips and piping. .

Cashback!

Get a fab pad!

One scheme that helps people in social housing learn basic DIY skills is Fab Pads. Susan Aktemel, who runs the scheme in Scotland, explains why its important for people to take care of their own home: Making your house your home is the most important and satisfying thing you can do. Its the foundation for everything else in your life. Fab Pad participants achieve great things every day, through hard work and working with our talented interior designers. Carol is a Fab Pads success story. She learnt how to make furnishings for her

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tenant training Courses Fab Pads B&Q

And learning how to look after your home has never been more important. The Government recently said they are going to test a scheme that will give tenants in social housing the chance to carry out their own DIY. Known as the Tenant Cashback scheme, the idea is to give tenants cash to do up their home, rather than getting their landlord or an agency to do it for them. While there has been a mixed response to the scheme, many professionals think it will give tenants the chance to make their homes better. Housing Minister Grant Shapps said: Tenant Cashback will allow houseproud residents to take over more of their repairs budget and carry out their own DIY or choose a local handyman to do it. Any savings made will be theirs to pocket. If youre handy with a screwdriver, paintbrush or hammer then its crazy that you have to call out your landlord to do even the smallest of jobs. Some Housing Associations are also offering courses where tenants can learn the basic skills needed to keep their home in shape. Brighton and Hove Council have set up The Housing Centre, an old warehouse which has been turned into a place where tenants can come and do courses on DIY and much more.

And as Lorraine from the East End reveals, training schemes can work: My house was a tip! I hated it. I didnt know where to start. I didnt know what I was doing. Its great to have someone that can tell you stuff I didnt know you could wash your walls with sugar soap! Before I had a habit of starting something and not finishing it. Now instead of just rushing into it I plan it all out. My house is still not done yet but I now know that at the end itll all be done the way I want it. It makes you feel good when you make things youve never tried before. Now Ill be able to do it myself!

Useful contacts
Get in touch with your local housing association and ask if they offer Diy tenant training Courses.

t: 0141 575 3001 www.impactarts.co.uk Based in scotland, the scheme teaches young people in their first tenancy or at risk of homelessness how to personalise their home.

t: 0845 600 5428 http://bit.ly/Diyclass B&Q run a choice of 20 courses at their 15 centres across the UK. Covering everything from fixing a leaky tap to tiling.

 | Quids in!

how to decorate a picture frame

What yoU neeD: A small wooden picture frame A small piece of medium grit sandpaper (120 grit) A damp duster A small flat-bristled brush A small pot of water Free taster pots of white and coloured emulsion paint Your choice of decorations. This can be glitter, sequins or small stickers, PVA glue or clear varnish. When this is dry apply two thin coats of your chosen colour, allowing the frame to dry thoroughly after each coat.

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Pull back the support clips at the back of the frame and take out the backing and glass cover.

Once the glue is completely dry you can add a thin coat of varnish to finish off and protect your design. Allow it to dry thoroughly.

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You can now apply your choice of decoration using PVA glue.

Replace the glass, insert your chosen image fasten the clips and replace the backing.

Take your sandpaper and rub along the grain of the entire frame to remove any surface imperfections. Wipe off any sawdust with your damp cloth or duster.

Dampen your flat-bristled brush and use it to apply a thin coat of basic white emulsion from your taster pot.

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Protect your surfaces and clothing by wearing an apron and spreading newspaper on your work area.

Quids in! says

Keep your brush and wa ter pot clean to avoid any messy mixing of paints. For a smoother finish , you can use sandpaper in between coa ts of varnish!

I cant believe the stuff I have made so far. I love every minute of it!
Carol, who was part of the Fab Pads project

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Quids in! | 

top Live weLL,

tips spend less!
Gills recipes Gills tips

Bubble & Squeak

traditionally, Bubble & squeak is made from a mixture of leftover mash, cabbage and onion. But its also good if made with butternut squash or sweet potato, broccoli, carrots and peas. The onions are a must, but there are no rules really, so just use whatever youve got! n Leftover potatoes and vegetables n 3 4 tbsp sunflower oil or n 1oz (25g) lard

1. Get a large mixing bowl, mash all the leftover vegetables together and mix with the potatoes. 2. To fry: Pre-heat the oil in a very large pan until its practically smoking. Put everything in the pan and fry until heated through and crisp and brown in places. Keep turning the Bubble & Squeak over in the pan with a vegetable

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under
recipe cost:

Free Fruit!
Make the most of special offers on late summer fruit and vegetables, especially in the market or sold by the roadside. You could make them last by using them in a pie and freezing it for later. And look out for the last of the blackberries and apples growing in the hedges. Just remember to give them a good wash before eating!

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slice or spatula so it browns nicely on both sides, without sticking and burning. 3. To bake: Put the mix in a greased ovenproof dish, dotting the top all over with butter. Bake in a hot oven at gas mark 6/7 (200/220C) until its a deep golden brown all over the top. n To serve: With sausages, or baked beans and tomatoes if vegetarian. Recipe provided by Gill Holcombe

bright
Brass security door chain

ideas
This heavy duty door chain lets you safely check whos at your door. Remember to ask for ID from any doorstep trader. Available from Screwfix: 0500 414 141

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Quids in! rounds up some money-saving home security gadgets that can offer peace of mind for less than 10
swann window and door aLarm
Easy to use and simple to install, this twin pack alarm system is easily concealed on any window or door. Available from Homebase: www. homebase. co.uk

need heLp with energy BiLLs?

Most energy and water providers offer trust funds to help out people who owe them money but cant pay. n If you get your electricity or gas from British Gas, contact them on 01733 421 060 or at www. britishgasenergytrust.org.uk. n Several companies also offer grants through Charis. You can contact them on 01733 421 021 or www.charisgrants.com. n Water companies also offer grants. For example, Thames Water has the Thames Water Trust Fund. Find out more at www.twtf.org.uk. Tips by Community Money www.communitymoney.co.uk

texet strip cut shredder

Avoid identity theft by making sure you shred all important documents that may contain any banking or personal information. Available from Staples: 0844 546 6666

cost 9.25

cost 8.33

cost 9.99

 | Quids in!

Quids in! Budget Bootcamp

yOu can Be a

Diy
DO

Times are getting tougher but there are lots of ways to give your home a low-cost facelift. Quids in! offers some handy and simple tips

SAM
Think about touching up the paintwork. Its a simple job Try making your own furnishings. Cushion covers and
that doesnt need to cost a lot of money and makes your house look smarter. decorated picture frames are quick and easy to do see page 5 for more details.

O ERP! E H L
DOnt
Work on your property without Drill into a wall without checking
what you are drilling into! There could be cables or pipes in there!

Quids in!says

There are plenty of things you can do to give your home a facelift for less. A great place to start is a charity shop, where you can pick up everything from furniture to knick-knacks. Wooden furniture can be painted or given a coat of varnish to jazz it up. If you need a new carpet, try asking for offcuts from a carpet shop which you can get for a fraction of the price.

Start a job without thinking about how much it will cost and how long it will take to finish research and planning cost nothing so make sure you are fully prep ared for the work you are going to do. DIY if you havent got the tools for the job! Tools can be bought cheaply and buying a multipur pose tool that can do more than one job is a good place to start. Or maybe you can borrow from friends, family or neig hbours? Just remember to return them as soon as the jobs done! Or why not ask neighbours if they want to chip in to buy a set of tools? Try to carry out major structural work , or attempt to fix broken plumbing or electrics! Doing complicated jobs without being trained can lead to accidents, or it might end up costing you more money to correct things if they go wrong. checking with your landlord or Hou sing Association first. There are rules in place and you dont want to break them.

Try to declutter. Half the time you can spruce up your

house for free just by getting ride of some old junk and clearing the shelves. It will give you more space and make things look tidier plus you could think about taking your old stuff to a car boot sale to make some money!

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Always read the instructions.
If you know exactly how something works, or how it fits together, then you can save yourself time, effort and money.

Check out Freecycle (www.

uk.freecycle.org) where you can get household items for free!

ReaDeRs tips There are plenty of places where you can get training and learn more about basic DIY, but if you cant
afford to pay to do a course, check out B&Qs YouTube channel, where youll see loads of videos which offer DIY tips and advice see www.youtube.com/bandq. Watch videos on fixing tiles and putting up fencing, and get inspirational ideas for decorating your home.

Quids in! | 

CrAIg
PhIllIPs
Big Brother winner turned celeb builder Craig Phillips offers Quids in! readers some tips and advice for home improvement on a budget

In The knoW

I always try to save cash, even if its only five quid here and there...

Q A

Can yo u t e l l us about your latest TV shows? Im filming If Its Broke, Fix It and Celebrity DIY. In Celebrity DIY I go to celebs houses and teach them some DIY skills in their own home. One show we did was with Frankie Dettori, and we got to see his home, meet his family and his horses! So not only do you get to see the celebritys lifestyle but also the look on their face when you put a cordless drill in their hand they dont look so confident all of a sudden!

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Do you think people are losing their DIY skills? It does worry me. When I was a kid I grew up around my father and uncle and there were always hand tools around. Kids now mainly spend their time on computers and I feel that young people are losing their physical skills. There are a lot of first-time buyers whove never even picked up a hammer!

DiY tips

Craigs top

Q A

Q A Q A

What sort of DIY skills were you teaching them? I put in some decking with Linda Robson, fitted some laminate floors with Sam Fox and did kitchen work surfaces with Yuri Geller just some very light, basic DIY skills. Who would you say was the worst DIY dodger? Russell Grant! He was hopeless! It was fun though. Hed been given his own family crest and we hung that on the wall while he told me all about it. He didnt enjoy the drilling and painting though!

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Do you think your shows help to teach DIY skills? In If Its Broke, Fix it, we ran workshops for people to come and learn DIY skills so they could take care of a DIY dilemma at home. It was normally something they couldnt afford to get fixed. We had teams of middleaged and married couples and we taught them all the basic skills they needed. I must admit, I was a bit alarmed at their lack of knowledge some of them didnt know the difference between a trowel and a hammer! But in the end they all did a brilliant job one team plastered their entire garage! It was much better than my first attempt at plastering!

What have you learnt over the years about budgeting and DIY? You have to be strict. Some people call me tight because I always try to get the cheapest deal but I always try to save cash, even if its only 5 here or there. When you think about it, if Im building a 27-room house for a client, if you add up every 5 I save, it can end up being thousands of pounds. My advice would be that whether its a small job painting a wall or laying a laminate floor, always shop around to find the cheapest prices. Everyone is feeling the pinch at the moment so people really are up for negotiating over the cost of building supplies. I started off with one house 14 years ago and now I own more than 30, but still, each time I buy I learn more and become more cautious with money and plan every detail. And if you plan ahead like that, you can guarantee youre looking after your cash.

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Take a look around your house and see whats old. Youll save money if you stop things that are worn from breaking for example, wallpaper and paintwork. Make sure you do your research. Ive done loads of step-by-step video clips for UKTV on tiling, flooring and painting, and theyre free! You can see them at http://bit. ly/craigsvideos. Shop around and try to buy a multipurpose tool that can do more than one job. If you have to do some DIY, plan how long it will take and dont do it if you dont have the time. If you rush to get it done, you could make mistakes which cost money to put right. Dont try to go out of your comfort zone. Start with small tasks and when you get more confident, then look at taking on bigger jobs

 | Quids in!