I think much, much more investment should be put into public transport.I live in a medium sized town and have done so for 20 years. During that time my bus service has become every 30 minutes instead of every 15 and two routes have been combined, which means it takes twice as long, and with the free buse passes for OAPs, I can't get a seat anyway. If a friend and I want to go into town it is more than a fiver for a return ticket. Better to use my car and pay £1.20 in parking and at least I know I will get a seat!
However, I am a bit shocked at the car insurance prices, tower of strength. Have you got any years of No Claims? When I got divorced, I had to take out my first policy (before I had just been a named driver on my husband's). Mine was quoted at over £1000 by most places and I finally got it for £695. It is worth trying different conbinations, like accepting a higher excess charge. Have a look at Martin Lewis's website here as well as he always highlights special offers.
Thanks for your tips, but I need to park a car in car parks for my current job as I work in a city centre which makes the overall cost awful. Next year i want a new job so hopefully I can look at my options then.
Since my original post, I feel there hasn't been much progress so feel really disheartened. I can feel myself starting to fight the battle against "going down"
I wish I knew what to suggest.
Sending hugs and best wishes your way - so helpful, I know...
xx
Hello tower of strength
Good to hear from you though I am sorry that you feel you aren't making any progress. I do think that this time of year can aggravate that feeling.....and the media images which try to convince us that everyone else is in this Waltons-style family set up become even more pronounced with the festive season.
You mention that you want a new job soon, that could be a whole fresh start for you. How are things with the children at the moment?
Hi tower of strength. New to the boards but they seem great. Just wanted to say hi.
I would love a car, so have been checking some of the prices.
However, I am really shocked by insurance. I have been quoted minimum of £1200 up to £3000! (on the comparison websites) I did see on Watchdog last night though that some people have had 100% increases in their insurance.
I'm not sure if insurance has always been this expensive though or the way the market is going. Or is mine expensive as I park on the road?
I really would benefit from a car though as I am so trapped by public transport. Public transport isn't even cheap here.