Nearly 66% of adults have reported a worsening cost of living crisis in the past month, according to official figures. The Office for National Statistics data highlights that energy and food costs continue to be significant financial burdens for individuals. Approximately 1 in 30 adults shared that they had run out of food and couldn’t afford more in the last two weeks.
The situation was more severe among residents in the most deprived regions of England, as well as renters and individuals with disabilities. Furthermore, nearly 60% of respondents indicated cutting back on eating out, emphasizing the strain on the hospitality sector already grappling with survival challenges.
In response to these concerns, the Labour party has pledged to prioritize addressing the escalating cost of living crisis in the upcoming year. The ONS survey underscored that cost of living is the primary worry for 88% of the population, surpassing concerns about the NHS, the economy, immigration, crime, and housing.
The survey conducted from the start to the beginning of December coincided with the holiday season, adding financial pressures to households. Findings revealed that 62% of participants noted an increase in their cost of living compared to the previous month, with disabled adults experiencing a sharper rise at 70%.
The most observed cost hikes included food prices (94%), energy bills (68%), and fuel costs (46%). Additionally, a significant portion of respondents mentioned strategies like reducing dining out, opting for cheaper groceries, and actively seeking discounts to save money.
Notably, around a third of energy bill payers expressed difficulties in affording them, while 17% reported struggles in maintaining warmth at home. Gender-wise, 90% of women and 86% of men expressed concerns about the cost of living. Worries were particularly high among the unemployed, retirees, and self-employed individuals.
These findings reflect ongoing challenges faced by many in the UK amid rising living costs and economic uncertainties.