Nearly 66% of adults have expressed concerns about the escalating cost of living crisis in recent weeks, according to official data. The Office for National Statistics revealed that energy and food expenses continue to burden people’s finances significantly. Approximately 3% of adults admitted to facing food shortages due to financial constraints in the past fortnight, with the rate soaring to 8% in the most deprived regions of England, as well as being notable among renters and individuals with disabilities.
Moreover, nearly 60% of respondents indicated that they are reducing their dining out activities, highlighting the strain on the struggling restaurant and pub industry. The Labour party has pledged to prioritize addressing the ongoing cost of living crisis, recognizing its pivotal role in the upcoming local elections. The ONS survey underscored that the cost of living is the top concern for 88% of individuals, surpassing worries about the NHS, the economy, immigration, crime, and housing.
The survey, conducted from early to mid-December, captured the financial challenges faced by households during the holiday season. Results showed that 62% of participants experienced a rise in living costs compared to the previous month, with a notable increase to 70% among disabled adults. The most common expenses on the rise included food prices (94%), energy bills (68%), and fuel costs (46%).
Additionally, the survey indicated that a significant portion of the population is adopting money-saving measures such as purchasing cheaper groceries and seeking discounts. Notably, around 33% of energy bill payers reported difficulties affording these expenses, while 17% struggled to maintain a comfortable home temperature. According to data spanning the last three months, women (90%) are more concerned about the cost of living compared to men (86%).
Worries about the cost of living are prevalent among various demographics, with unemployment being a major source of concern, alongside retirees and self-employed individuals.