Nearly 66% of adults have experienced a deepening cost of living crisis in the past month, as per concerning official data. The Office for National Statistics revealed that expenses on energy and food continue to be major financial burdens for individuals.
Approximately 1 in 30 adults reported running out of food in the last two weeks due to financial constraints. This percentage rose to 8% among residents in the most deprived regions of England, as well as among renters and individuals with disabilities.
Moreover, almost 60% of respondents stated they are reducing their dining-out activities, indicating significant financial strain on restaurants and pubs struggling to survive. This situation has prompted Labour to prioritize addressing the ongoing cost of living crisis, especially with upcoming local elections where voter concerns are anticipated to focus on this issue.
According to the ONS survey, the cost of living is the top concern for people (88%), surpassing worries about the NHS (86%), the economy (71%), immigration (60%), crime (58%), and housing (55%). The survey highlighted that the proportion of adults expressing concern about the cost of living has remained consistent compared to a year ago.
The survey, conducted during the holiday season from early December to the beginning of December, disclosed that 62% of respondents saw an increase in their cost of living compared to the previous month. The rise in costs was particularly notable among disabled adults, with 70% reporting a worsening financial situation.
The primary expenses that have recently surged include food shopping prices (94%), energy bills (68%), and fuel costs (46%). Additionally, a significant number of individuals are opting to eat out less, purchase cheaper groceries, and hunt for discounted food items to save money.
Moreover, around one-third of energy bill payers find it challenging to afford their bills, and 17% of adults struggle to maintain a comfortable home temperature. The ONS data also revealed that women are more concerned about the cost of living than men, with worries being prevalent among the unemployed, retired, and self-employed individuals.
These findings underscore the pervasive impact of the escalating cost of living crisis on individuals across various demographics.