Key facts
- 7.4 million households are struggling to afford essential items.
- 62% of low-income families reported inability to afford essentials in the last six months.
- Prime Minister Andy Burnham plans to cut VAT on electricity bills from October.
- Many individuals are skipping meals or reducing portion sizes to save money.
- Rising costs for food and energy are significantly impacting household budgets.
A significant portion of the UK population, particularly low-income families, are facing severe financial difficulties, struggling to afford basic necessities. According to the Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF), 7.4 million households, or 62% of low-income families, were unable to afford essential items in the past six months. This marks an increase from the previous year, highlighting the persistent nature of the cost of living crisis.
Individuals like Elaine Yates, a 77-year-old pensioner, shared her struggles, noting she can barely afford to use her oven for hot meals and rations her heating to save money. Similarly, Zoe Hayden, a single parent, described the shock of grocery bills for basic items exceeding £45 for less than two bags of shopping. Research from Christians Against Poverty indicates that 35% of UK adults experience daily financial worries.
In response to these challenges, newly appointed Prime Minister Andy Burnham has pledged to introduce measures to alleviate the cost of living pressures. These include a planned reduction in VAT on electricity bills starting in October. Charities like Age UK and the JRF have welcomed these steps but are calling for further interventions, such as increased support for energy bills and measures to control rental prices and improve Universal Credit adequacy.
A government spokesperson asserted their determination to combat poverty, citing recent statistics that show rising household incomes, a decrease in food bank usage, and reduced food insecurity. They highlighted ongoing efforts such as increasing the National Minimum Wage, removing the two-child limit on benefits, and launching a £1 billion Crisis and Resilience Fund.