Cost of living: More than half of households taking action to cope with rising cost of essentials | Business News

More than half of households have had to make adjustments to cope with the rising cost of essentials in the past month.

Some 57% of households said they had taken measures such as cutting back on essentials, borrowing from family and friends, taking out loans or credit cards, dipping into savings or overdrafts, or selling items.

This compares to the 38% who said the same in May 2021.

The survey, by consumer group Which?, also estimated that around two million households have missed making payments for bills, housing, credit cards, or loans in the past month.

One third of people said they have used less hot water due to the increase in energy prices, while 16% said they were eating fewer cooked meals.

Some 11% said they had skipped meals due to rising food prices, while 8% had prioritised meals for other family members and 3% had used a foodbank.

Which? said one respondent told them: “I can’t afford to buy food each week, so I am not able to eat a proper meal each day.

“I can’t afford to buy oil, so I go to bed when it gets cold.”

Another said: “I’m cold, hungry, and miserable.”

Revealed: How much supermarkets’ cheapest food is rising in price

The survey also said there had been a loss of consumer trust in energy companies, with some of that due to how direct debit payments are being increased.

Ofgem said earlier this month that the energy price cap – the mechanism that sets a limit on the amount suppliers can charge for gas and electricity and on the daily standing charge – was likely to rise to £2,800 in October.

The government responded by promising £400 to all households, as well as an additional £650 for those on low incomes, £300 to pensioners, and £150 to those on disability benefits.

This comes amid rises in the cost of fuel, food, council tax and national insurance.

Rocio Concha, Which? director of policy and advocacy, said: “The latest government support package to help with rising energy bills will bring relief to many people.

“However, the government needs to make sure the right level of support is available for the most vulnerable through the cost of living crisis.”