Christmas can be a joyful occasion, and a time for many of us to get together with loved ones. It can also be stressful and a time of year when extra support may be needed.

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The impact of the current cost of living crisis is putting many more families under additional strain.

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We know that many families, and those working to support them, might be looking for help this year, and we wanted to share our FREE materials which offer advice and guidance through this festive period.

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Debt and relationships
Debt and money troubles are among the biggest causes of relationship stress. You can find a number of resources on our free relationships platform Click, focusing on the different ways people can find themselves in debt, the impact it can have on their relationships, and why it’s always a good idea to talk to a partner about it. The following articles contain advice to help people prepare for conversations about debt so that they can move on together:

• Animated, real-life stories from couples who have dealt with debt issues.
• What to do if you’re in debt and haven’t told your partner.
• What to do if you think your partner is in debt and hasn’t told you.

Further specialist advice is also available for people who would like to talk to somebody about debt.

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Perfect present pressure?
The current economic climate has increased the financial strain on many families, and feeling under pressure to find the perfect present shouldn’t be adding to this stress.

While choosing the perfect gift can feel like an ideal way to show your love, research suggests that shared experiences can help partners feel closer, and these don’t need to be expensive. In fact, personal touches can give you both a boost of happiness.

In fact, it’s the small gestures that people tell us they value most in their relationship. A simple cup of tea was one of the most highly ranked ‘gifts’ people said made them feel appreciated by their partner.

However you choose to celebrate this season, remember that every relationship is different, and how much you spend on gifts does not reflect your feelings. So do what feels right for you. The care and loving attention you give is what matters to relationship quality, and that doesn’t cost a penny.

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First Christmas as a co-parent?
Navigating your first Christmases as a separated parent can be difficult. To help co-parents keep the festive period merry for their children, we’re sharing this advice from the divorce experts at amicable.

Further free support covering a wide range of relationship issues is available on our relationships platform, Click.

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The OnePlusOne team will be taking a break over the Christmas period, and our offices will be closed from 24 December until 3 January. If you need to reach one of the team, please email info@oneplusone.org.uk

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