Last year we did an experiment with the heating (gas). Luckily we also have a coal fire and an endless supply of free logs. 
We use the fire most days during the winter, we always have.
We set all the radiators (six roomed house) lower than we normally had them.
We had the heating on from 7.30am till 10.30pm every day and we were approx £50. less than the year before.
Bearing in mind the fuel was actually dearer than the year before, and the really bad winter we had.
I make loads of different kinds of soup and freeze, then there is always a choice.
Making a shopping list and sticking to it helps. 
Try not to take OH when food shopping they always seem to put things in the trolley that you really do not need, mine does anyway.........LOL
Our little group of friends had "3 course Dinners" every month in one of the houses.
We have now decided that we should just have "Light Suppers".  It is amazing the amount of extra money you spend trying to suit other people.
We all agreed that we are all more than capable of feeding ourselves and a light supper is all that is necessary as it really is the company/friendship that matters.
Seems ridiculous in this day and age we are talking about this when the government are handing out OUR money willy! nilly!.
I really do not mind helping others but it is now getting beyond a joke.......................

Patricia smiley: happy