Cold Snap Triggers Outcry as Age UK Urges Government to Reinstate Winter Fuel Allowance

UK is urging the government to reinstate the Winter Fuel Allowance amid public outcry over a sudden cold snap. The organization emphasizes the need to protect vulnerable individuals from the rising costs of staying warm. Also, get to know why this local Scottish council is charging expectant mothers additional tourist tax in today's Money Making Moves:  

> Snow is expected across much of the UK this weekend, with the Met Office forecasting up to 20cm in some areas and warning of travel disruptions. Yellow weather warnings for snow and ice cover England, Wales, and Scotland, with parts of Wales, northern England, and the Midlands most likely to see significant snowfall. The cold spell has reignited calls from Age UK for the government to reinstate the universal winter fuel allowance, previously limited to pensioners on the lowest incomes. The organization argues that older people need additional financial support to stay warm and safe during the harsh winter conditions.

> Shoppers are entering 2025 cautiously, balancing optimism from lower inflation with concerns about potential price increases under the incoming Trump administration's tariffs. Holiday sales showed resilience, with US retail sales growing 3.8% during the season, driven by promotions and deal-hunting. However, surveys reveal that despite reported optimism, many consumers plan to maintain or reduce spending in most categories, reflecting lingering economic uncertainty. While slowing inflation could boost consumer confidence, fears of a recession and rising costs remain significant hurdles for retailers and shoppers alike.

> The Department of Transportation fined JetBlue Airways $2 million for "chronically delayed flights" across four routes between June 2022 and November 2023, marking the first penalty of its kind. JetBlue was found responsible for over 70% of the delays, with the DOT accusing the airline of failing to adjust unrealistic flight schedules. While JetBlue acknowledged the settlement, it blamed outdated air traffic control systems and staffing shortages, urging the government to modernize infrastructure to reduce delays. The DOT credited JetBlue $1 million of the fine for compensating passengers with vouchers and goodwill payments during the investigation period.

Create a unique business by offering locally curated travel guides tailored to your area’s hidden gems and experiences. Whether through audio walking tours, printed maps, books, or augmented reality apps, these guides can highlight the best restaurants, events, or outdoor adventures from a local's perspective. Even smaller, less-explored destinations can benefit from such resources, as they often lack comprehensive tourist information. A venture like this taps into travelers' desire for authentic, insider experiences while filling a gap in the market for personalized exploration tools.

Starting a subscription box service is a trendy and profitable business idea, with endless possibilities for themes and audiences. Platforms like Cratejoy simplify the process by providing tools to launch, market, and sell your subscription box. To succeed, focus on a specific niche to make your box unique and appealing in a crowded market. A well-curated, standout offering can attract loyal subscribers and carve out a profitable space for your brand.

> Small business and farm loans took a hit in 2023 as rising interest rates and tighter lending rules made financing harder to secure. Loan originations fell over 5%, and total loan amounts dropped even further, reflecting the strain on small enterprises. Most loans were under $100,000, with many supporting businesses earning $1 million or less annually, but access to working capital remains elusive for most. As economic pressures mount, securing funding is becoming a critical hurdle for small businesses trying to stay afloat. For quality financial knowledge on loans and credit scores, click here. 

> A Scottish local council has faced backlash over a proposed tourist tax that would also impact expectant mothers staying in accommodations near hospitals. Highland Council plans to introduce a 5% overnight stay levy starting in autumn 2026, aiming to raise £10 million annually, but critics, including the Caithness Health Action Team, have called it an "incredible lack of humanity." Pregnant women in remote areas like Caithness often stay in hotels before giving birth due to long distances to hospitals, making them unintended targets of the tax. The proposal has sparked concerns from both health advocates and the hospitality industry, which fears a decline in business, as councillors prepare to vote on the measure next year.

> After her divorce, Sherita Janielle embraced a nomadic lifestyle, working remotely while traveling to places like Portugal, Colombia, Uruguay, and Argentina. As companies increasingly call employees back to the office, remote roles are harder to secure, prompting some workers to pursue freelance opportunities or join smaller firms. Experts argue that remote and hybrid setups can boost productivity and engagement by providing workers with autonomy, though in-person roles still have merits for collaboration and quick problem-solving. Janielle, now a "chief nomad officer" at Shift, demonstrates how remote work enables flexibility and success, sharing insights from her travels to over 45 countries.