{"id":521389,"date":"2026-06-06T07:38:03","date_gmt":"2026-06-06T07:38:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/521389\/"},"modified":"2026-06-06T07:38:03","modified_gmt":"2026-06-06T07:38:03","slug":"im-a-landlord-can-i-pass-my-flats-to-my-children-without-inheritance-tax-due","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/521389\/","title":{"rendered":"I&#8217;m a landlord. Can I pass my flats to my children without inheritance tax due?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>In our <a href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/topic\/money-clinic?ico=in-line_link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">weekly series<\/a>, readers can email any questions about their finances to be answered by our expert, Rosie Hooper. Rosie is a chartered financial planner at Quilter Cheviot and has worked in financial services for 25 years. If you have a question for her, email us at <a href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/inews-lifestyle\/money\/property-and-mortgages\/mailto:money@inews.co.uk?ico=in-line_link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">money@inews.co.uk<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question:<\/strong> How can I pass <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/topic\/buy-to-let?srsltid=AfmBOooD6u9FhJukWQJVFaLibNc6tGGcif_0oDT0fQEjpX4Z2gtAiex6&amp;ico=in-line_link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">rental properties<\/a> to my children and cut inheritance tax? I have three children all over the age of 26.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Answer: <\/strong>It is very understandable that you want to pass wealth to your children while reducing their inheritance tax bill. Rental properties often feel like family assets, particularly if they have been owned for many years and have risen significantly in value.<\/p>\n<p>\n\t\t\tShorts\n\t\t<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\tScroll to previous short<br \/>\n\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/wp-content\/themes\/inews-theme\/assets\/images\/chevron.svg\" alt=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<p>\t\t\tScroll to next short<br \/>\n\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/wp-content\/themes\/inews-theme\/assets\/images\/chevron.svg\" alt=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/wp-content\/themes\/inews-theme\/assets\/images\/chevron.svg\" alt=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_240344420.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>The UK\u2019s mild climate may be destroyed<\/p>\n<p>While much of the world is set to grow hotter as a result of the\u00a0climate crisis, the UK could soon face a different fate. <\/p>\n<p>Climate scientists fear a \u2018cold blob\u2019 in the Atlantic Ocean may bring Arctic conditions instead of a tropical future.  <\/p>\n<p>Bill McGuire, a professor of geophysical and climate hazards at University College London (UCL), is one of them. <\/p>\n<p>Here he shares why cold temperatures could be our reality in a few decades.<\/p>\n<p>Why this could happen<\/p>\n<p>At the moment, global heating is making the UK hotter. This warmth is thanks to the presence of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), a system of currents over the Atlantic.\u00a0<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Without these currents, our climate would be more akin\u00a0to the much colder weather in north-eastern\u00a0Canada.<\/li>\n<li>And the AMOC might be set to U-turn.<\/li>\n<li>One study suggests that the AMOC has weakened by 15 per\u00a0cent since the mid-20th century.<\/li>\n<li>There is not much we can do to stop<br \/>this decline. Emissions would need to <br \/>be cut in half within five years to have <br \/>any chance of dodging a permanent global temperature change.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\nHow to prepare for a change\n<\/p>\n<p>\u201cAll countries need to ensure that infrastructure, food security, services <br \/>and public engagement are robust,\u201d <br \/>says Professor McGuire.<\/p>\n<p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"512\" width=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_282462314.jpg\" alt=\"Snow falls over in Middleton-in-Teesdale, County Durham. Storm Chandra brought travel disruption and flooding as strong winds and heavy rain hit much of the UK. Picture date: Tuesday January 27, 2026. PA Photo. Photo credit should read: Owen Humphreys\/PA Wire\" class=\"wp-image-4197116\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover;width:204px\"  \/>Caption: Snow falls over in Middleton-in-Teesdale, County Durham. Storm Chandra brought travel disruption and flooding as strong winds and heavy rain hit much of the UK. Picture date: Tuesday January 27, 2026. PA Photo. Photo credit should read: Owen Humphreys\/PA Wire<br \/>Photographer: Owen Humphreys<br \/>Provider: Owen Humphreys\/PA Wire<br \/>Source: PA<br \/>Copyright: PA Wire<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"711\" width=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_279809223_352a12.jpg\" alt=\"A train arrives into the station in the town of Glossop, Derbyshire, northern England on January 6, 2026, after a light snow covered the region overnight. The UK's Met Office issued fresh weather warnings for January 5-6 for snow and ice for Scotland, Northern Ireland and parts of northern England and said cold weather health alerts for all English regions would remain in place until January 9. (Photo by Oli SCARFF \/ AFP via Getty Images)\" class=\"wp-image-4169171\" style=\"aspect-ratio:9\/10;object-fit:cover;width:195px\"  \/>A train arrives into the station in the town of Glossop in the snowy weather last week. New rail projects planned for the North of England are \u2018really exciting,\u2019 the Transport Secretary has said (Photo: Oli SCARFF \/ AFP via Getty Images)<\/p>\n<p>One paper estimated that only seven per cent of UK land would be suitable for <br \/>arable farming in the new climate, <br \/>compared with the current 32 per cent. \u201cManaging this looks like rationing and restricted civil liberties,\u201d he claims.<\/p>\n<p>The global impact<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_136798593.jpg\" alt=\"FILE PHOTO: Smoke billows from a fire in an area of the Amazon rainforest near Porto Velho, Rondonia State, Brazil, September 10, 2019. REUTERS\/Bruno Kelly\/File Photo\" class=\"wp-image-2037993\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Smoke billows from a fire in an area of the Amazon rainforest near Porto Velho, Rondonia State, Brazil (Photo: Bruno Kelly\/Reuters)<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>It could cause the weakening of the African and Asian monsoons, resulting in famine.<\/li>\n<li>Increased warming of the southern hemisphere could further dry out the Amazon.<\/li>\n<li>Increase melting across Antarctica would accelerate sea level rise.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/inews-lifestyle\/how-uk-could-become-cold-canada-2050-3536144?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/1780731450_927_SEI_240344420.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_label\">LIFESTYLE<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">5 min read<\/p>\n<p>What we need to do<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\" style=\"position: relative;\">\n<p>This is entirely the result of\u00a0global heating caused by human activities. It is critical that monitoring of the AMOC is maintained, even increased. European governments really need to be planning for a future that could well be <br \/>much colder.<\/p>\n<p>AUTHOR OF THE FATE OF THE WORLD: HOW OUR FUTURE IS WRITTEN IN THE PAST<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/GettyImages-126383237.jpg\" alt=\"Snow covering Arlington Row in the Cotswolds village of Bibury. - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4218978\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Snow covering Arlington Row in the Cotswolds village of Bibury. \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p>Our shared ownership home is a disaster<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_217472885.jpg\" alt=\"Paul Afshar, campaigner for End Our Cladding Scandal (EOCS). who???s flat in Hackney Wick has been affected by unsafe cladding which means that he is unable to sell the property. Photographed outside the block of flats affected.\" class=\"wp-image-3258972\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Paul Afshar is struggling to sell his shared ownership flat in Hackney Wick (Photo: Charlie Forgham-Bailey)<\/p>\n<p>Paul Afshar felt a sense of pride when <br \/>he purchased 25 per cent of a new home in East London \u2013 as a way to get on the property ladder without huge financial backing. <\/p>\n<p>But years on, Afshar has discovered the drawbacks of the scheme, including the rising costs and difficulty moving on. <\/p>\n<p>\nThe background\n<\/p>\n<p>A 25 per cent of a one-bedroom flat in London.<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>In 2007 Afshar put a five per cent deposit (\u00a32,500) on his share of the flat and entered a 35-year mortgage on a standard variable rate.\u00a0<\/li>\n<li>Although he only owns a quarter of his flat in Hackney but is eligible for 100 per cent of the maintenance costs.<\/li>\n<li>Between 2007 and 2024 his mortgage rose 48 per cent from \u00a3268.65 to \u00a3400.28. He also pays \u00a3865.48 on rent (shared ownership requires paying rent to the organisation who owns the rest) and a service charge.<\/li>\n<li>Fixing unsafe cladding on his block of will also cost in excess <br \/>of \u00a350,000, as it isn\u2019t eligible for government funding.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The impact on residents<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\" style=\"position: relative;\">\n<p>It has definitely triggered a deep sense of anxiety in me that affected my mental health. It\u2019s this constant heavy, nervous feeling in my stomach.<\/p>\n<p>AFSHAR, 41<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_217473018.jpg\" alt=\"Paul Afshar, campaigner for End Our Cladding Scandal (EOCS). who???s flat in Hackney Wick has been affected by unsafe cladding which means that he is unable to sell the property. Photographed leaving his flat.\" class=\"wp-image-3258975\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Caption: Paul Afshar, campaigner for End Our Cladding Scandal (EOCS). who???s flat in Hackney Wick has been affected by unsafe cladding which means that he is unable to sell the property. <\/p>\n<p>Photographed leaving his flat.<br \/>Photographer: Charlie Forgham-Bailey<br \/>Provider: Charlie Forgham-Bailey<br \/>Source: Charlie Forgham-Bailey<\/p>\n<p>Shared ownership in the UK<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/PRI_169247374.jpg\" alt=\"BRENTFORD, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 19: A general view of some of the student accommodation blocks within the Paragon Residential development which have been placed on a mandatory evacuation order, on October 19, 2020 in Brentford, England. Paragon is a development of six apartment blocks owned by one of London's largest housing associations, Notting Hill Genesis. A recent investigation into the exterior cladding coupled with structural and fire safety issues has led to the association asking residents of the 1059 flats to evacuate while further investigations are made. The estate was developed by Berkeley First, part of The Berkeley Group plc. (Photo by Leon Neal\/Getty Images) Myra Butterworth\" class=\"wp-image-3597240\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Caption: BRENTFORD, ENGLAND \u2013 OCTOBER 19: A general view of some of the student accommodation blocks within the Paragon Residential development which have been placed on a mandatory evacuation order, on October 19, 2020 in Brentford, England. Paragon is a development of six apartment blocks owned by one of London\u2019s largest housing associations, Notting Hill Genesis. A recent investigation into the exterior cladding coupled with structural and fire safety issues has led to the association asking residents of the 1059 flats to evacuate while further investigations are made. The estate was developed by Berkeley First, part of The Berkeley Group plc. (Photo by Leon Neal\/Getty Images) <\/p>\n<p>Myra Butterworth<br \/>Photographer: Leon Neal<br \/>Provider: Getty Images<br \/>Source: Getty Images Europe<br \/>Copyright: GETTY IMAGES<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>In 2024, 200,000 households were shared ownership properties.<\/li>\n<li>In 2021-22 there were 19,386 new\u00a0shared ownership properties.<\/li>\n<li>Fewer than 2,000 shared ownership households managed to staircase from part to full ownership in 2022.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/inews-lifestyle\/regret-shared-ownership-flat-financially-emotionally-crippling-4356918?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_293709375.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_label\">Big Read<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">9 min read<\/p>\n<p>\nSelling up\n<\/p>\n<p>Afshar couldn\u2019t sell his flat but didn\u2019t feel safe to live in it \u2013 because of the cladding. So he lived with his partner for three years, still paying the mortgage and charges.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"512\" width=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_217473009.jpg\" alt=\"Paul Afshar, campaigner for End Our Cladding Scandal (EOCS). who???s flat in Hackney Wick has been affected by unsafe cladding which means that he is unable to sell the property. General view of the unsafe timber cladding.\" class=\"wp-image-3258976\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover;width:204px\"  \/>Caption: Paul Afshar, campaigner for End Our Cladding Scandal (EOCS). who???s flat in Hackney Wick has been affected by unsafe cladding which means that he is unable to sell the property. <\/p>\n<p>General view of the unsafe timber cladding.<br \/>Photographer: Charlie Forgham-Bailey<br \/>Provider: Charlie Forgham-Bailey<br \/>Source: Charlie Forgham-Bailey<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"711\" width=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_217472766.jpg\" alt=\"Paul Afshar, campaigner for End Our Cladding Scandal (EOCS). who???s flat in Hackney Wick has been affected by unsafe cladding which means that he is unable to sell the property. Photographed inside his flat.\" class=\"wp-image-3258977\" style=\"aspect-ratio:9\/10;object-fit:cover;width:195px\"  \/>Caption: Paul Afshar, campaigner for End Our Cladding Scandal (EOCS). who???s flat in Hackney Wick has been affected by unsafe cladding which means that he is unable to sell the property. <\/p>\n<p>Photographed inside his flat.<br \/>Photographer: Charlie Forgham-Bailey<br \/>Provider: Charlie Forgham-Bailey<br \/>Source: Charlie Forgham-Bailey<\/p>\n<p>Property expert\u00a0Crystal Olenbush says selling is the biggest issue. \u201cYou\u2019ve got to figure out how to divvy any equity, then you\u00a0need to find someone to take over the side of the seller\u2019s portion of the mortgage. There\u2019s a whole legal process to transfer that shared ownership stake. If anyone tries to skip steps, it creates huge problems.\u201d<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_217472955.jpg\" alt=\"Paul Afshar, campaigner for End Our Cladding Scandal (EOCS). who???s flat in Hackney Wick has been affected by unsafe cladding which means that he is unable to sell the property. Photographed outside the block of flats affected.\" class=\"wp-image-3258974\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Paul Afshar is struggling to sell his shared ownership flat in Hackney Wick <br \/>(Photo: Charlie Forgham-Bailey)<\/p>\n<p>The takeaway<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\" style=\"position: relative;\">\n<p>I got into something I didn\u2019t fully understand.<strong>\u00a0<\/strong>I was sold a dream of homeownership and it\u2019s come back to bite me years later. It\u2019s heartbreaking.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p>Looking back Afshar wishes he\u2019d have looked into the service charge, mortgage rate and selling protocols sooner.<\/p>\n<p>Thinking of getting<br \/>a divorce?<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s not always the solution, says psychotherapist and author Philippa Perry, who has been married for 32 years. <\/p>\n<p>Here are the five things she recommends asking yourself before dishing<br \/>out the divorce papers.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_233854036.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>\nThe questions you should ask\n<\/p>\n<p>Is it a you problem?<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"633\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/GettyImages-2210372102.jpg\" alt=\"Couple, talk and arguing with fight at house for disagreement, conflict and divorce discussion. Woman, explain and bored man for conversation, toxic relationship and drama and marriage fail in lounge - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4203291\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Couple, talk and arguing with fight at house for disagreement, conflict and divorce discussion. Woman, explain and bored man for conversation, toxic relationship and drama and marriage fail in lounge \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s not a good idea to get divorced when you\u2019re just depressed and stressed. You\u2019re naturally irritated by everything and everybody. It\u2019s too easy to\u00a0take that out on your partner and think they\u2019re the problem.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/opinion\/quickest-and-easiest-way-to-save-a-marriage-4382803?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Cat-B-e1777476511582.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_label\">OPINION<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">2 min read<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"507\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_255249409_cda430.jpg\" alt=\"Asian stressed woman and aggressive man screaming at each other in house. New marriage couple arguing and fighting, feel heartbroken for quarrel conflict in bedroom. Family problem-separation concept.\" class=\"wp-image-3745042\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>(Photo: Kawee Srital-on\/Getty).<\/p>\n<p>Are you telling <br \/>yourself a story?<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\" style=\"position: relative;\">\n<p>We cherry-pick the evidence against our partner until we\u2019re so set on them being the enemy\u2026<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p>It feels almost like tying up loose ends. But it won\u2019t really solve the problem. It just makes it much worse. It\u2019s okay to be wrong. Good relationships are full of ruptures and repairs.<\/p>\n<p>\nThe questions you should ask\n<\/p>\n<p>It is a mixmatch of<br \/>conflict styles?<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>When we\u2019re under stress, we have our preferred way of coping.<\/li>\n<li>You want a\u00a0partner who\u2019s on the same page as you, so that you have moments of connection.<\/li>\n<li>Some people think a lot, other people want to go straight to action. <\/li>\n<li>If you\u2019re a thinker, and you\u2019re married to a do-er, it\u2019s important to remind them that they don\u2019t have to fix every problem. If you are a doer, you have to say something like, explain your process and thoughts a little more.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Do you believe the <br \/>grass is greener?<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\" style=\"position: relative;\">\n<p>If this is you, do some serious therapy on yourself. What gets in the way of a good relationship is thinking that the grass is greener and therefore having a lack of commitment. This is why we have marriage because you make a commitment. <\/p>\n<p>PHILIPPA PERRY, AUTHOR OF BEST-SELLING BOOKS ON PARENTING AND RELATIONSHIPS<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_231317064.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>Do you have moments<br \/>of inclusion?<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_296026112.jpg\" alt=\"Happy young couple spending quality time together at home\" class=\"wp-image-4404171\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Son\u2019t assume your partner knows how you think (Photo: ljubaphoto\/Getty\/E+)<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Moments of inclusion are the ones when you both feel like you\u2019ve both clicked, and really get on. \u00a0<\/li>\n<li>If these moments are missing, we need to leave more space for them.<\/li>\n<li>Also treat love as an action, not a feeling. Ask yourself, what can I do for my partner today?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/inews-lifestyle\/year-marriage-broke-couldnt-agree-retirement-4403265?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_294909057.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_label\">LIFESTYLE<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">5 min read<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_180458138.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--badge\">FOOD AND DRINK<\/p>\n<p>The UPFs the <br \/>health experts eat<\/p>\n<p>In the UK, 50 per cent of our daily energy comes from\u00a0ultra-processed sources, rather than fresh, minimally processed food. <\/p>\n<p>This has been blamed as one of the reasons for the nation\u2019s poor health and high rates of obesity. While all UPFs get a bad reputation, there are some that are better than others.<\/p>\n<p><strong>We asked the health experts which UPFs they include in their diets.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>\nThe UPFs the health experts buy\n<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_180458242.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>Sausages<\/p>\n<p>Dietitian Aisling Pigott has sausages once a week, choosing the vegan or high-meat versions. <\/p>\n<p>Orange squash<\/p>\n<p>Priya Tew buys no-added sugar squash to help her children drink more water.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_180458133.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_180458205.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>Lentil crisps<\/p>\n<p>Nutritionist Jenna Hope has these as an alternative to regular crisps. <\/p>\n<p>\nThe UPFs the health experts buy\n<\/p>\n<p><strong>Baked beans<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Dr Linia Patel, a dietitian and performance nutritionist, enjoys baked beans. She eats them on a jacket potato with cheese and a side salad as a quick, filling and nutrient dense meal.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"512\" width=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/rsz_gettyimages-486824855.jpg\" alt=\"Squirts of ketchup up the sugar in his diet (Richard Heathcote\/Getty Images)\" class=\"wp-image-254758\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover;width:204px\"  \/>Squirts of ketchup up the sugar in his diet (Richard Heathcote\/Getty Images)<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"711\" width=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_260536192_ca8ef1.jpg\" alt=\"Homemade Barbecue Baked Beans in a Black Skillet\" class=\"wp-image-3832135\" style=\"aspect-ratio:9\/10;object-fit:cover;width:195px\"  \/>Caption: Homemade Barbecue Baked Beans in a Black Skillet<br \/>Photographer: Dragos Rusu \/ 500px<br \/>Provider: Getty Images\/500px<br \/>Source: 500px<\/p>\n<p><strong>Ketchup<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Gut health nutritionist Yalda Alaoui, who follows a mostly anti-inflammatory diet, has ketchup as small amounts do not impact her blood glucose levels.<\/p>\n<p>\nOther UPFs that health experts put in their shopping basket\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"92\" width=\"140\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_227981703.jpg\" alt=\"Still life of sweets and goodies with copy space\" class=\"wp-image-3358563\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Some people can be concerned about a sugar rush (Photo: Elizabeth Perez Holowaty\/Getty)<\/p>\n<p>Haribo sweets for their children <br \/>so they can learn to self-regulate with food.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"92\" width=\"140\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_275631128.jpg\" alt=\"Woman eating colored breakfast cereal in front of laptop, workplace breakfast, quick healthy breakfast in office in the morning.\" class=\"wp-image-4065085\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover\"  \/>It\u2019s estimated ultra processed foods make up at least half of the average UK diet (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p>Emergency cereal bars when homemade flapjacks run out.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"92\" width=\"140\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/GettyImages-490533679-e1556126750236.jpg\" alt=\"Sriracha chilli sauce on the production line (David McNew\/Getty Images)\" class=\"wp-image-284106\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Sriracha chilli sauce on the production line (David McNew\/Getty Images)<\/p>\n<p>Hot sauce and mayonnaise<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"92\" width=\"140\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/PRI_154246005.jpg\" alt=\"Oakland, CA - December 02, 2016: Grocery store shelf with jars of Marmite brand Yeast Extract. A by-product of beer brewing, enjoyed at any time on toast for breakfast, in sandwiches at lunchtime; Shutterstock ID 545767972; Purchase Order: -\" class=\"wp-image-443711\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Caption: Oakland, CA \u2013 December 02, 2016: Grocery store shelf with jars of Marmite brand Yeast Extract. A by-product of beer brewing, enjoyed at any time on toast for breakfast, in sandwiches at lunchtime; Shutterstock ID 545767972; Purchase Order: \u2013<br \/>Photographer: Sheila Fitzgerald<br \/>Provider: Shutterstock \/ Sheila Fitzgerald<br \/>Source: Shutterstock<\/p>\n<p>Marmite as a source of vitamin <br \/>B12 and potassium. <\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"92\" width=\"140\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_130304791.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1924552\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Photographer: Aleksandr Zubkov<br \/>Provider: Getty Images<br \/>Source: Moment RF<\/p>\n<p>Almond milk in morning drinks, fortified with vitamin D. <\/p>\n<p>How to find balance<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\" style=\"position: relative;\">\n<p>My mantra with UPFs is \u2018reduce but not restrict\u2019. I don\u2019t think we need to cut them out but it\u2019s a good idea to assess how much you eat. If some are [things] you especially love, then cutting them out can lead to you craving them more.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Priya Tew, registered dietitian specialising in eating disorders<\/strong><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"628\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/UPFs-banner.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2577984\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"960\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/GettyImages-2224659418.jpg\" alt=\"Senior female friends spending leisure time knitting while sitting at table in retirement home - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4307220\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Senior female friends spending leisure time knitting while sitting at table in retirement home \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p>How can people give themselves the best chance of a good retirement?<\/p>\n<p>\nAre retirees in the UK happy?\n<\/p>\n<p>What the statistics say<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--statistic\">47%<\/p>\n<p>Almost half of studies into the impact of retirement on people\u2019s mental\u00a0health\u00a0report a negative impact on life satisfaction.<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--statistic\">72%<\/p>\n<p>According to the latest Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures, among those aged 50-59 who have left the workforce, 72 per cent would consider returning\u00a0to work, often citing a need for financial security and purpose.<\/p>\n<p>Nearly a third (32 per cent) of 50-70 year-olds retired earlier than they hoped. <\/p>\n<p>Volunteering<\/p>\n<p>73-year-old Martin Delgado, who retired from his role as a journalist, enrolled as a volunteer with the NHS 10 years ago. <\/p>\n<p>He attends seminars, goes on training courses and works with psychiatric patients at an NHS mental health trust in London.<\/p>\n<p>(As well as looking after his grandson). <\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_293136160-e1776886255112.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/inews-lifestyle\/good-retirement-three-happy-pensioners-4355361?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_293136123_a4294a.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_label\">Big Read<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">9 min read<\/p>\n<p>\nMartin\u2019s other tips for retirement\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/GettyImages-1629387728.jpg\" alt=\"Elderly couple taking selfie while hiking together in autumn mountains. - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4313923\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>Elderly couple taking selfie while hiking together in autumn mountains. \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p>Have hobbies<\/p>\n<p>He often goes on bike rides, hikes, solo camping trips and finds time to read.<\/p>\n<p>Exercise<\/p>\n<p>He runs two or three mornings a week and when it becomes too much is planning to take up swimming or cycling.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_294303414.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up view of female jogger tying laces of her sport shoes before running exercise routine. Motivation, healthy lifestyle and fitness concept.\" class=\"wp-image-4377104\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>Find the best shoes for you (Photo: Xavier Lorenzo\/Getty\/Moment RF)<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_293136160-e1776886255112.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>Spend time with family<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI spend as much time with our grandson as I can. Having him around has had a huge emotional impact.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>\nIt doesn\u2019t have to be all or nothing\n<\/p>\n<p>For Toni Del Mar, 75, one of the things that has\u00a0made her retirement a happy one is spending more spontaneous time with friends in her Devon village.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_294068724-e1776886381898.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/1780731466_564_SEI_293136123_a4294a.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:9\/10;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>But she hasn\u2019t given up everything completely. Mar runs her home as a B&amp;B which she cleans and prepares for guests.<br \/>It provides her with purpose and help <br \/>paying the bills.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_293136328_d813f9.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re struggling, there\u2019s hope<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\" style=\"position: relative;\">\n<p>Retirement was the biggest challenge of my life.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p>Simon McEwan, who had a 43-year career in journalism, felt lost without structure and routine. He wishes he\u2019d have phased work out slowly.<\/p>\n<p>Now he\u2019s built a new routine including exercise, mindfulness, meditation and joined a mental health walking group. <\/p>\n<p>\nHow to stay connected\n<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>1<strong>Plan in advance <\/strong>\u2013 join community groups or take up new hobbies that can bridge the initial gap when work stops.<\/li>\n<li>2<strong> Enjoy the arts<\/strong> \u2013 creativity can provide a new sense of purpose and organic opportunities for new bonds.<\/li>\n<li>3<strong>Maximise fulfillment<\/strong> \u2013  identify activities that you enjoy, and take time to build up interest.\u00a0<\/li>\n<li>4<strong>Balance your activities<\/strong> \u2013 mix ones for enjoyment with ones that help others. For example, volunteering at local community groups.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The mistakes parents make at home<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_296246655.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>Baby-proofing professionals like Al Kola from Baby Safe Steps say there are several mistakes he often sees that are actually more harmful than helpful.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>He shares the most common ones.<\/p>\n<p>\nAccidents in the UK\n<\/p>\n<p>Unintentional injuries in and around the home are a leading cause of preventable death for children under five years.<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--statistic\">67,000<\/p>\n<p>Every year, more than 67,000 children experience an accident in the kitchen, says the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents.<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--statistic\">58,000\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>58,000 children have accidents on the stairs, often where the most serious incidents occur.<\/p>\n<p>\nThe mistakes parents make\n<\/p>\n<p><strong>The wrong gate<br \/><\/strong><br \/>Pressure gates \u2013 gates with a bar along the bottom to keep them fixed in place \u2013 shouldn\u2019t be on the stairs as the bar is a trip hazard. You can end up flying down the stairs with your baby.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"507\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/GettyImages-1486654662.jpg\" alt=\"Young Asian mother enjoying family time with her toddler in nature - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4303317\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover;width:204px\"  \/>Young Asian mother enjoying family time with her toddler in nature \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"750\" height=\"440\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/cuggl-e1559225443371.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-296967\" style=\"aspect-ratio:9\/10;object-fit:cover;width:195px\"  \/>The Cuggle Extending wooden gate failed some of the tests (Photo: Argos)<\/p>\n<p><strong>Not securing furniture <br \/><\/strong><br \/>Parents tend to assume that kids won\u2019t do XYZ. For example, we might assume they won\u2019t pull on drawers, but they can, and it\u2019s a threat that can land on them.<\/p>\n<p>\nWhat to do\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"507\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/GettyImages-2004444668.jpg\" alt=\"Father with baby on hands standing near window at home. - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4336140\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>Father with baby on hands standing near window at home. \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p>Don\u2019t leave windows ajar<\/p>\n<p>The window could be pushed open the rest of the way by a toddler of about two years old.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Hide cords<\/p>\n<p>Cameras next to a cot are often on a wire, which means that a child could grab it, take it into their cot and get entangled.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"507\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/best-travel-cots.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-409133\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover\"  \/> <\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"507\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_270217608.jpg\" alt=\"love three padlock on fence lock forever Pensions pensioners triple lock padlocks\" class=\"wp-image-4341214\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>The Government may eventually have to scrap the triple lock (jacquesdurocher\/Getty Images\/iStockphoto)<\/p>\n<p>Lock cupboards<\/p>\n<p>Lock cupboards where you keep cleaning products, batteries, medicine, glassware and potentially tools.<\/p>\n<p>\nOther things to note\n<\/p>\n<p>You don\u2019t need to overprepare. If\u00a0you put edge protectors everywhere, then that child is not going to know what pain is.\u00a0When they go anywhere else like nursery and do get hurt because they don\u2019t understand it.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"507\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_278396558.jpg\" alt=\"Mother guiding her young daughter to school up the stairs, symbolizing back to school season and family bonding.\" class=\"wp-image-4121467\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover;width:204px\"  \/>Caption: Mother guiding her young daughter to school up the stairs, symbolizing back to school season and family bonding.<br \/>Photographer: FreshSplash<br \/>Provider: Getty Images<br \/>Source: E+<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"507\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/GettyImages-2226939653.jpg\" alt=\"Asian small toddler child is riding a toy car when he falls on the floor, leading to cries and shouts. The unhappy boy, playing with his toy car in the living room daylight, sheds tears - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4312157\" style=\"aspect-ratio:9\/10;object-fit:cover;width:195px\"  \/>Asian small toddler child is riding a toy car when he falls on the floor, leading to cries and shouts. The unhappy boy, playing with his toy car in the living room daylight, sheds tears \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p>The only baby gate brand Al Kola trusts is Baby Dan. \u201cWe\u00a0use them for a few reasons: firstly, safety, secondly, practicality, and then thirdly, they look good. They are the only brand that currently ticks those boxes for most scenarios.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>As a finance expert that\u2019s made money mistakes in the past, these are the secrets I\u2019ll pass on\u2026<\/p>\n<p>Clare Seal once had \u00a327,000 of credit card debt. Now she\u2019s a financial coach. <\/p>\n<p>Here are the tips she\u2019ll pass onto her daughter.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_291520917-e1774882917103.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_291520927-e1774883151367.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--badge\">MONEY<\/p>\n<p>Clare\u2019s story<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\" style=\"position: relative;\">\n<p>I want [my daughter] to learn from my mistakes and make smaller, less catastrophic ones.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p>Over the course of 10 years, Seal amassed debt that equated to her whole pre-tax salary. Some was down to high living costs and a low salary and some from her wedding. <\/p>\n<p>Now she\u2019s paid off her debt, she is teaching her child to avoid this \u2013 and be wiser.<\/p>\n<p>Align your career and lifestyle aspirations<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\" style=\"position: relative;\">\n<p>I\u2019d like to make sure my daughter knows what sort of salary her chosen profession can command, what sort of hours she might work and where to set her sights when it comes to lifestyle. When there\u2019s a mismatch, it can lead to frustration, resentment and debt if you try to make up the shortfall with credit.<\/p>\n<p>CLARE SEAL, AUTHOR OF FIVE STEPS TO FINANCIAL WELLBEING<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/GettyImages-2010738320.jpg\" alt=\"Young woman making a payment with a credit card - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4330820\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Young woman making a payment with a credit card \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p>\nThe money tips I\u2019ll pass on\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"496\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_296932548.jpg\" alt=\"A married couple sitting in silence, looking in opposite directions. The image captures the concept of female loneliness within a marriage, emotional disconnection, and relationship problems. Symbolizes quiet desperation and isolation at home\" class=\"wp-image-4415826\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>Caption: A married couple sitting in silence, looking in opposite directions. The image captures the concept of female loneliness within a marriage, emotional disconnection, and relationship problems. Symbolizes quiet desperation and isolation at home<br \/>Photographer: Galina Zhigalova<br \/>Provider: Getty Images<br \/>Source: Moment RF<\/p>\n<p>Keep a \u2018freedom fund\u2019<\/p>\n<p>This\u00a0is specifically designed as an escape hatch from a difficult situation, like a horrible partner or bad boss.<\/p>\n<p>Start investing<\/p>\n<p>Investing even just a <br \/>tiny amount of pay <br \/>could help to grow real financial security.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"434\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_296761102.jpg\" alt=\"A conceptual illustration featuring a growth graph composed of pink translucent house symbols at varying heights, reflecting a vibrant blue background. This design symbolizes real estate market growth, property investment, housing trends, and financial analysis. The clean and modern composition conveys progress, change, and market dynamics, making it ideal for marketing materials, editorial content, infographics, and corporate presentations with a visually engaging and contemporary aesthetic.\" class=\"wp-image-4413281\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>Rent control has proved a controversial topic in the UK, but is used more widely across the world (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"507\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_234457780.jpg\" alt=\"Young Asian women managing home finance using laptop &amp; smartphone. She is working with household utility bill and calculating expenses at home.\" class=\"wp-image-3453865\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>(Photo: Tang Ming Tung\/Getty).<\/p>\n<p>Always negotiate<\/p>\n<p>For women additional benefits like a generous pension, paid leave and health insurance, can make a huge difference.<\/p>\n<p>\nThe money tips I\u2019ll pass on\n<\/p>\n<p><strong>Liking yourself is your armour<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>\u201cI could not tell you how much I have spent over the years, trying to \u2018fix\u2019 the parts of myself that society told me were not good enough,\u201d says Seal.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"512\" width=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_296952235.jpg\" alt=\"Senior female friends with party hats and sunglasses having celebration outdoors in garden.\" class=\"wp-image-4421115\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover;width:204px\"  \/>Friendships can be hugely rewarding but like any relationship you have to nurture them (Photo: Halfpoint Images\/Getty\/Moment RF)<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"709\" width=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_284334630.jpg\" alt=\"A young girl plays sits on a wooden bench beside a long radiator and a sunny window. She gazes out through the glass. The room is homely and comfortable. Conceptual with space for copy.\" class=\"wp-image-4227234\" style=\"aspect-ratio:9\/10;object-fit:cover;width:195px\"  \/>Caption: A young girl plays sits on a wooden bench beside a long radiator and a sunny window. She gazes out through the glass. The room is homely and comfortable. Conceptual with space for copy.<br \/>Photographer: Catherine Falls Commercial<br \/>Provider: Getty Images<br \/>Source: Moment RF<\/p>\n<p><strong>Have an enjoyment allowance<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>A pot of money for guilt-free spending is a good idea. If you start young enough, spending on your lifestyle and saving for your future don\u2019t have to be mutually exclusive.<\/p>\n<p>Use credit wisely <\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>I want to teach her how easy <br \/>credit makes it easy to hide your own spending from yourself.<\/li>\n<li>I hope she understands that there <br \/>is always a price to pay.<\/li>\n<li>I don\u2019t want her to be scared of credit though because that\u2019s a recipe for misuse and shame.<\/li>\n<li>I want her to know how to use it well and what the red flags are.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/inews-lifestyle\/husband-share-every-penny-splitwise-never-argued-money-4405083?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_225809359.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_label\">LIFESTYLE<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">4 min read<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_257036614.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>Summer is approaching, and so are the insects<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_261169543.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>Are we getting more flies in the UK?<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\" style=\"position: relative;\">\n<p>With warmer, wetter winters and longer summers, flies are likely to breed quicker and survive for longer. We\u2019re likely to see more in the future.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p>James Logan, professor of medical entomology at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, says we could see more bugs as warmer temperatures create an ideal environment for breeding.<\/p>\n<p>\nHow to deter flies\n<\/p>\n<p><strong>Clear out leftovers<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Flies love leftover food, especially if it\u2019s sugary or decaying. Food should be covered or in airtight containers, and leftovers cleared away immediately after eating.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_261169602.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"711\" width=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/GettyImages-1509889349.jpg\" alt=\"A man pours a glass of water from a chrome tap at a kitchen sink - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4188907\" style=\"aspect-ratio:9\/10;object-fit:cover;width:195px\"  \/>A man pours a glass of water from a chrome tap at a kitchen sink \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p><strong>Clean your sink<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Particles of food found in the sink or drains after washing up will attract flies so keep them clean and clear. Keeping windows closed will also help. <\/p>\n<p>\nAt-home remedies to try\n<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_129283494.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>Try vinegar <\/p>\n<p>Mixing apple cider vinegar with a spoonful of sugar and washing up liquid attracts flies\u00a0\u2013 they then drown in the liquid.<\/p>\n<p>Lemon with cloves<\/p>\n<p>Cut a lemon in half and stick in some cloves. It\u2019ll create a strong combination of smells that repel flies.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_121088359-e1661446493825.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"507\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_277295949.jpg\" alt=\"Flat lay arrangement of dried ground pungent spices and aromatic herbs in rustic wooden spoons in a random scatter on a blue background viewed from above\" class=\"wp-image-4094064\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>If you\u2019re looking for a way to boost your health and wellbeing, you likely already have a goldmine in your store cupboard (Photo: Yulia-Images\/Getty)<\/p>\n<p>Herbs<\/p>\n<p>Placing mint, rosemary and basil around windows and kitchens can keep flies at bay. <\/p>\n<p>\nTechniques to use\n<\/p>\n<p>Keep windows closed<\/p>\n<p>Have windows ajar not wide open and use fans as the airflow makes it hard for flies to land.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_291888647.jpg\" alt=\"A serene moment of relaxation, with a person reclining by a window while reading in a comfortable, warmly-lit room adorned with decorative details.\" class=\"wp-image-4335113\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>Take time to rest (Photo: Counter\/Getty\/Digital Vision\/Nicolas Hudak)<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/PRI_165242972.jpg\" alt=\"One example of this is the Intelligent Street Lighting project being trialled by Glasgow City Council. It uses an algorithm to process real time sensor data on noise, air pollution and footfall around the city and control street lighting in reaction to people\u2019s use of cycle paths and open spaces. (Richard Baker via Getty Images)\" class=\"wp-image-653418\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>One example of this is the Intelligent Street Lighting project being trialled by Glasgow City Council. It uses an algorithm to process real time sensor data on noise, air pollution and footfall around the city and control street lighting in reaction to people\u2019s use of cycle paths and open spaces.<br \/>(Richard Baker via Getty Images)<\/p>\n<p>Use warm lights, if any<\/p>\n<p>While flies are attracted to blue light, they are repelled by warm tones so try to get yellow or orange-toned lights.<\/p>\n<p>Check your drains<\/p>\n<p>Remove any organic matter that could be a food source, and clean them using boiling<br \/>water and vinegar.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_144056827.jpg\" alt=\"WEYMOUTH, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 19: Street art drawing attention to pollution caused by rainwater drains which take untreated surface water, or storm water, directly to rivers and beaches with the words, 'The Beach Starts Here' is seen at a road drain on October 19, 2021 in Weymouth, United Kingdom. (Photo by Finnbarr Webster\/Getty Images)\" class=\"wp-image-2146861\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"  \/>Water companies are allowed to spill sewage so long as their plants are overwhelmed (Photo: Finnbarr Webster\/Getty)<\/p>\n<p>\nLook at your bins\n<\/p>\n<p>Leftover and decaying food is a playground for flies<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_247627639.jpg\" alt=\"A resident walks past uncollected bin bags piled up on Poplar Road in Birmingham, central England, on April 15, 2025. Residents are desperately trying to get rid of an estimated 17,000 tonnes of trash that has piled up since refuse workers ramped up a strike last month. Four weeks in, the city council has declared a &quot;major incident,&quot; the prime minister has had to defend the government's response in parliament, and residents say their problems are worsening by the day. (Photo by Paul ELLIS \/ AFP) (Photo by PAUL ELLIS\/AFP via Getty Images)\" class=\"wp-image-4383947\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Caption: A resident walks past uncollected bin bags piled up on Poplar Road in Birmingham, central England, on April 15, 2025. Residents are desperately trying to get rid of an estimated 17,000 tonnes of trash that has piled up since refuse workers ramped up a strike last month. Four weeks in, the city council has declared a \u201cmajor incident,\u201d the prime minister has had to defend the government\u2019s response in parliament, and residents say their problems are worsening by the day. (Photo by Paul ELLIS \/ AFP) (Photo by PAUL ELLIS\/AFP via Getty Images)<br \/>Photographer: PAUL ELLIS<br \/>Provider: AFP via Getty Images<br \/>Source: AFP<br \/>Copyright: AFP or licensors<\/p>\n<p>Keep your compost bin as far from the<br \/>house as possible, use a wheelie bin liner and keep the lids sealed, says pest control expert Jonathon Nicholls.<\/p>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/inews-lifestyle\/why-encouraging-insects-garden-so-important-3218437?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/SEI_215961023.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_label\">LIFESTYLE<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">2 min read<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/wp-content\/themes\/inews-theme\/assets\/images\/chevron.svg\" alt=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>But the first thing to say is that passing on rental properties during your lifetime can create a tax bill now, even if your aim is to save tax later.<\/p>\n<p>If you give a <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/topic\/renting?srsltid=AfmBOopriLnIoh5uqfJhR4lXfg00g7R5GQKQggVLfIWfVc4XuSLE3hkN&amp;ico=in-line_link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">buy-to-let property<\/a> to your children, HMRC generally treats that as a disposal at market value. In plain English, it is as though you had sold the property, even if no money changes hands. If the properties have been owned for a long time and have gone up substantially in value, this could trigger a large capital gains tax bill. <\/p>\n<p>For 2026-27, capital gains tax is charged at 18 per cent for basic rate taxpayers and 24 per cent for higher and additional rate taxpayers, after the \u00a33,000 annual exemption.<\/p>\n<p>This is the trap many landlords fall into. They look at inheritance tax, which is charged at 40 per cent above the available allowances, and forget that capital gains tax may be payable much earlier. <\/p>\n<p>The standard inheritance tax nil rate band is \u00a3325,000, and the residence nil rate band can add up to \u00a3175,000 where a qualifying home passes to direct descendants, although it is tapered for estates over \u00a32m.<\/p>\n<p>One option that may be raised in this situation is using a company structure, sometimes called a special purpose vehicle, or SPV, to hold rental properties. <\/p>\n<p>This can be useful for some landlords, particularly where they are building a portfolio for the long term. But transferring existing personally owned properties into a company is not a magic wand. The ownership changes, so capital gains tax may be triggered, and there may also be stamp duty land tax to consider.<\/p>\n<p>There is a possible route called incorporation relief, which can defer capital gains tax where a genuine business is transferred to a company as a going concern. But this is specialist territory. <\/p>\n<p>HMRC\u2019s own guidance says whether property letting amounts to a business depends on the facts, including the scale, regularity and extent of the activity. The Ramsay case is often cited because the taxpayer was found to spend around 20 hours a week on the property business, which helped support the claim for relief.<\/p>\n<p>So, by all means explore incorporation, but do not do it on the basis of a headline idea. You would need specialist property tax advice before moving assets, because getting it wrong could simply bring forward a large tax bill.<\/p>\n<p>There is also a more basic question: do your children actually want to be landlords?<\/p>\n<p>Your three children are adults, so this should not just be a tax exercise done to them. Rental property comes with tenants, repairs, compliance, void periods, interest rate risk and, sometimes, awkward family discussions. What feels to you like a valuable inheritance may feel to them like a responsibility they would not have chosen.<\/p>\n<p>There are also risks in transferring assets outright. Your children may be financially sensible now, but circumstances change. Divorce, debt, business failure or poor decisions can all put inherited property at risk. Passing wealth down is not just about reducing tax; it is also about making sure the wealth lands in a way that helps rather than complicates their lives.<\/p>\n<p>That is why selling one or more properties should not be dismissed. Yes, a sale may trigger capital gains tax. But once the tax is paid, you have liquidity. Cash gives you more planning options. You could make gifts over time, help children with deposits, support pensions or ISAs, use trusts where appropriate, or take out life insurance written in trust to cover a future inheritance tax bill.<\/p>\n<p>Lifetime gifts can fall outside your estate for inheritance tax if you survive seven years, but you need to be comfortable that you will not need the money yourself. Property is illiquid; cash planning is often more flexible.<\/p>\n<p>My starting point would be to map the whole position looking at it from your perspective and theirs before transferring anything: current values, original purchase prices, mortgages, likely capital gains, rental profits, your wider estate, and what each child actually wants. Only then can you compare the options properly: keep the properties, gift them, sell them, incorporate them, or use a mixture.<\/p>\n<p>The right answer may not be the one that produces the lowest theoretical tax bill. It is the one that leaves you financially secure, treats your children fairly, and passes wealth in a form they can actually use.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"In our weekly series, readers can email any questions about their finances to be answered by our expert,&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":521390,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","_share_on_mastodon":"0"},"categories":[177],"tags":[79,18,19,4518,6500,17,43589,70439,234,235,1658,24875],"class_list":["post-521389","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-personal-finance","tag-business","tag-eire","tag-ie","tag-inheritance","tag-inheritance-tax","tag-ireland","tag-landlords","tag-money-clinic","tag-personal-finance","tag-personalfinance","tag-property","tag-subscribers"],"share_on_mastodon":{"url":"https:\/\/pubeurope.com\/@ie\/116702029918790529","error":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/521389","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=521389"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/521389\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/521390"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=521389"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=521389"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=521389"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}