We’ve all been there. A week before payday, the cupboard is bare and your bank account has never looked so bleak. The only thing that will get you through the tough times is tracking down some freebies…

Haircuts

Get yourself a free new ‘do by being a hair model at your local hairdressers.

Food

Embrace your inner Ray Mears and get foraging in the wilderness for a tasty snack. Blackberries, nettles, seaweed and shellfish are all nutritious freebies.

Clothes

Swap your clothes online at www.bigwardrobe.com and get a whole new outfit (or two) for nothing.

Mystery Shopping

Review your local shops, restaurants and pubs for Marketforceand get free food and drinks.

Free Samples

Take advantage of free samples and blag yourself everything from free teabags to miniature perfume tester bottles.

Go Green

Cycle or walk to work, cut petrol costs and reduce your carbon footprint.

Entertainment

Join your local library and take advantage of the free books on offer.

Freecycle

Join your local www.freecycle.org group and swap your unwanted belongings for something useful.

Writes Rebecca Lomax

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