Everyone knows the cost of living is soaring and energy prices are through the roof.
A number of Fife businesses and community groups have launched giveaways and special offers to help people save money this winter.
From pensioners’ lunches for £1 to a bag of shopping for just a penny, here are five initiatives to help with the cost of living in Fife.
1 – Lunch for £1
The Laurel Bank Hotel in Markinch is offering a special deal for pensioners during November.
The Balbirnie Street business provides a bowl of hearty soup and a roll for £1 from noon to 3pm on Mondays to Fridays.
Managing director Lee Murray wants to repay the support offered by the community since he bought the hotel in 2020, just before the first lockdown.
He said: “With many of our older customers facing the prospect of having to make the decision of eating or switching on the heating, we thought, why not come to the Laurel Bank where the heating is always on.”
2 – Groceries for 1p
Premier One Stop Shop in Methil is preparing an amazing offer to run throughout December.
The Wellesley Road store will prepare bundles of shopping to sell for just 1p in the three weeks before Christmas.
Staff have not yet decided exactly what to have in each deal but bundles offered last month included bread, milk and sugar.
They say they will also include some treat items such as sweets and crisps.
They said: “We thought we would try to help where we can.
“We are thankful we are still in business because of the support we get from the community.”
Keep an eye on the Premier One Stop Shop Facebook page for offer details.
3 – Free winter coats and hoodies
Kirkcaldy holistic health shop Balance Fife has a collection of free coats, hoodies and fleeces hanging outside.
Anyone can visit their premises at 290 High Street and pick what they need without having to ask or even speak to someone.
Owner Wendy Brown says people have been handing in coats they no longer wear and she’s just passing them on.
“If we can reuse and recycle our coats and hoodies and give someone else the use of them this winter then it helps to reduce waste,” she said.
“It also helps people save money for other household items.
“People should feel comfortable to just have a rummage and take what they need.”
Wendy has a collection tin inside in aid of the Kirkcaldy-based Nourish Support Centre for anyone who does want to donate.
4 – Deer Centre pay as you please
The Scottish Deer Centre, near Cupar, is continuing its pay as you please offer until Christmas and beyond.
Owners David Hamilton and Gavin Findlay abandoned set ticket prices in August after realising not everyone could afford them.
And they’re encouraging visitors just to pay what they can.
David said: “We’re making it affordable to people and it means they don’t feel pressure to stay all day if they don’t want to.
“The cost of living is making it really hard for people.
“We thought it would be nice to spread some positivity.”
5 – Free food and board games
People can drop into Lochgelly Town Hall for free food or just a cuppa and blether this winter.
Volunteers, including pupils from Lochgelly West Primary School, have got together to launch Lochgelly Lunches.
They are offering light food and hot drinks every Tuesday from 11am to 1pm.
And there is a choice of board games to play for anyone interested.
Labour councillor Linda Erskine said: “We know people are struggling with rising costs and that’s why we’re providing food packs.
“We also make tea and food and offer a place for people to come and stay warm whilst meeting others socially.”
The initiative also offers food distribution and welfare support.
Conversation