Recent data from a collaborative survey conducted by YouGov and Christians Against Poverty (CAP) has laid bare the severe impact of the rising cost of living in the UK. The survey, encompassing 2,200 adults, reveals that more than 25% of UK adults resorted to skipping meals in July as a direct response to the financial strain imposed by the escalating cost of living.
In numerical terms, this translates to a staggering 14.7 million adults who opted to forego meals during the summer months, a distressing testament to the economic hardships faced by a significant portion of the population. The survey further discloses that on a weekly basis, 21% of respondents, equating to 11.3 million people, grappled with the harsh reality of skipping meals due to the persistent challenges posed by the cost of living crisis.
Perhaps even more concerning is the revelation that one in 10 individuals admitted to feeling that, at times, the increased cost of living made life itself seem not worth living. These deeply personal admissions underscore the human toll of a crisis that extends far beyond mere economic statistics.
Gareth McNab, CAP’s Director of External Affairs, stressed the urgency of addressing the deteriorating situation, stating, “Poverty in our communities is getting worse – it’s devastating the lives of millions of people across the UK, and that’s why we need to listen to the people experiencing it.” McNab highlighted the testimony of individuals like Rodney, a father of three, who recounted the painful experience of transitioning from a small business owner to a single parent struggling to provide basic necessities for his children.
The narratives shared by those directly impacted serve as a stark reminder of the profound challenges faced by individuals and families. Rodney’s story, echoing the sentiments of many, reflects a scenario where skipping meals becomes a grim reality in the struggle to prioritize essential needs over personal well-being.
McNab directed criticism at what he perceives as an ongoing lack of political will to address the root causes of chronically low incomes, whether through wages or social security. He argued that existing systems and policies often fall short, leaving individuals in vulnerable situations without the fundamental support required for a decent standard of living. McNab declared, “Nobody should be facing these injustices.”
In response to the survey’s revelations, a government spokesperson emphasized that their primary focus is on driving down inflation to enhance the purchasing power of citizens. The spokesperson pointed to a reduction in absolute poverty by nearly two million people since 2010 and highlighted the government’s provision of record financial support, a 10% increase in benefits this year, and a rise in the National Living Wage.
Despite these assurances, the challenge persists as inflation in the UK remains high at 6.7%, significantly exceeding the Bank of England’s target rate of 2%. As a countermeasure, the government is allocating an additional £1 billion to extend the Household Support Fund for councils in England until the end of March.
However, the financial concerns extend beyond inflation, with high energy bills and soaring food prices adding to the burden. A survey by retail giant Currys revealed that food is the most common necessity being sacrificed by individuals and families. Over two-thirds of respondents reported eating out less, 63% are cutting back on takeaways, and 54% are opting for non-branded groceries.
As winter approaches, anxieties about heating costs compound the existing financial strain. Two-thirds of Brits express concern about affording heating for their homes, while 56% are particularly worried about the colder months. Shockingly, 18% of respondents declared their intention to forgo heating this winter, underscoring the severity of the situation.
The survey findings also shed light on altered behaviors in response to rising energy prices. Two-thirds of respondents admitted to using household appliances less, with 62% opting for colder wash cycles and 61% lowering thermostats. Additionally, over 20% of respondents reported an increase in energy bills by £51 to £100 per month, equating to approximately £1,200 extra per year.
As the cost of living crisis deepens, the survey underscores the pressing need for comprehensive and empathetic interventions to address the root causes and provide meaningful support to those grappling with financial hardships. The individual stories emerging from this crisis serve as a poignant reminder that behind every statistic is a personal struggle, emphasizing the imperative for a compassionate and effective response to the widening socioeconomic challenges in the UK.
