Is it really true things are getting less tight for Londoners on the money front?

According to research published yesterday, the number of families in the capital with money worries has fallen by around a third since
last year.

In fact, according to the Legal & General Moneymood survey, households struggling with finances have fallen to 189,000 from 270,000.

That means a sizeable 81,000 households are better off. Are you one of those? If so, I'd be interested to hear what's changed. After all, home energy prices are up by almost a fifth since this time last year while rents are up by more than a tenth.

And commuters are still trying to cope with the hike in Tube and train costs since the beginning of the year.

But hopefully some of you have had a promotion or a pay increase in the last year.

Or maybe you have come into some money, through a legacy or a Lottery win perhaps.

Because, let's face it, despite the upbeat mood of the survey, most people feel things are just as tough as they ever were.

In fact, many are feeling even greater financial pressure because of the increased concern about losing their jobs. So another part of the survey that asked people what they are saving for is interesting reading.

It reveals that the number of Londoners saving to pay for a household bill has more than doubled, from 24% to 51%.

Meanwhile, those saving to afford petrol or fares to work has also doubled, from 12% to 25%.

In other words, there's twice as much focus on saving for essentials, rather than fun.

That sounds like a more realistic picture of the Londoners I know. Saving money is never fashionable, but when times are tough saving what you can is crucial.

Having some rainy day - or "escape" - money can give you a get-out clause. It can fend off immediate worries if you lose your job. Or you could use it to get out of the country to have a break from the stresses of work - or the
bad weather!

Corner cheaper car cover

Young drivers who do only a low mileage could save cash by switching to the AA's new pay-as-you-drive car insurance policy. It claims the cover could save motorists up to £850 a year, since it comes with a box to be installed in cars which measures speed, types of road travelled on, time of day and night, braking and cornering. The AA reviews this data, and safe drivers can earn money back throughout the year. Anyone driving Formula One-style, however, could see their premium go up.

Let Which? help you switch

Anyone angry about the latest rise in energy bills should register with lobby group Which?'s Big Switch campaign. It is hoping thousands of households will sign up by March 31, when Which? will negotiate with all the big energy providers to secure the cheapest deal for members. Utilities will be asked to submit their best price, and take part in a reverse auction. The cheapest deal will be offered to all who sign up. Which? will handle the process if you decide to switch. whichbigswitch.co.uk