Nearly 66% of adults have experienced a worsening cost of living crisis in the past month, according to official statistics. The Office for National Statistics data indicates that energy and food costs continue to be major financial burdens for individuals.
Approximately 3% of adults disclosed that in the last two weeks, they faced food shortages due to financial constraints. This percentage escalated to 8% among residents in England’s most impoverished regions, as well as among renters and individuals with disabilities.
Meanwhile, nearly 60% of respondents mentioned cutting back on dining out, highlighting the immense strain on restaurants and pubs struggling to survive. These findings coincide with the Labour party’s commitment to prioritize addressing the ongoing cost of living crisis, a key concern for voters in the upcoming local elections.
The survey revealed that cost of living was the foremost concern for 88% of respondents, surpassing other critical issues such as the NHS, the economy, immigration, crime, and housing. The ONS noted that these proportions have remained consistent compared to the previous year, indicating a sustained high level of concern among the population.
Conducted throughout December, the survey captured the impact of the holiday season on household finances. Results showed that 62% of participants reported an increase in living expenses compared to the previous month, with the rise more pronounced among disabled adults.
The most common cost hikes were observed in food shopping prices (94%), gas/electricity bills (68%), and fuel prices (46%). Additionally, a significant portion of respondents indicated changes in their spending habits, including eating out less (58%), opting for cheaper groceries, and actively seeking discounts to save money.
Struggles with affording energy bills were reported by around a third of respondents, with 17% expressing difficulty in maintaining comfortable heating in their homes. The ONS data also highlighted gender disparities, with 90% of women and 86% of men expressing concerns about the cost of living.
Notably, worries about the cost of living were prevalent among various demographic groups, including the unemployed, retirees, and self-employed individuals. These findings underscore the widespread impact of the current economic challenges on different sectors of society.
