Feeling the pinch: 'It’s soul-crushing to have to say ‘no’ so much'

The cost of living crisis is overwhelming. From psychological support to practical help, Helen O’Callaghan turns to the experts for advice

Pictured is Sally Vicary from Bagenalstown, Co Carlow. Photograph: Patrick Browne

Sally Vicary is watching how many times a week she turns on the oven.

“I decide what the kids and I will eat for the next four days and I do it all in one day to save on cost. I’m more likely to use my slow cooker than the oven — it’s not as expensive to turn on,” says Vicary, a single mum of three children aged 12, seven and five.