Going visiting is probably more of an evening activity if a lot of your friends and relatives work; but as you have no money, you have probably stopped going out much or meeting up with people so popping round to say hello or for a drink helps you keep in contact with some friendly faces.
Admittedly it can be difficult at times, especially if you have basically done nothing because you then have nothing to talk about! Hearing about their “amazing” lives can be a bit depressing if the highlights of your week were going to the Job centre, finding 50p and seeing a dog with three legs. (Not to mention watching Bargain Hunt).
So another idea is to offer help to people! Most people will have some odd jobs you can do; maybe they need some gardening, DIY or painting doing. Or just need something taking to the rubbish tip. You could offer to do their shopping for them or walk the dog. If they have young children I am sure they could do with a break! There are plenty of free/cheap things you can do to entertain children (see here) and the fun they have will probably lift your mood as well.
There are quite a few benefits from helping out others: you won’t get looked down upon for “sitting around doing nothing all day”, you will feel better about yourself having achieved something for the day, you will make them happy and they might well offer you a meal or a bit of money to say thank you! People will also be more inclined to help you out if you are clearly putting in some effort and are willing to help them.
I always turn down money, but people insist and you can only say “no it’s alright, honestly” so many times before you start thinking about your empty fridge and cupboards and reluctantly (and gratefully) accept. At least by helping them out you don’t feel so bad about being given things, and in a way, you’ve earned it!
