Bulletin No.20

Discussion: The Cost of Living Crisis

Across the UK, there has been a constant threat of a ‘cost of living’ crisis affecting millions, particularly those with low incomes. The cost of living crisis is characterised by the increased price of essential goods combined with a stagnancy of household incomes, resulting in a fall in real incomes. This means that for many families, staples such as pasta, meat, eggs, and oil have skyrocketed in unaffordability, leading them unable to afford basic necessities. Unfortunately, many households are now forced to make difficult choices, such as leaving central heating off despite low temperatures, using food banks to supplement meals, and skipping dinners to afford other utilities and goods. 

WHY IS THERE A COST OF LIVING CRISIS?

The increase in goods can be partially attributed to the rise in inflation in the UK. According to the Bank of England, about 80% of the causes of the crisis are global, including the invasion of Ukraine and the Coronavirus pandemic. 

However, many lobbyists and activist groups also point to the government’s response to these global economic catalysts as a key player in the cost of living crisis. Ofgem – the government regulator for the electricity and gas markets in the UK – have increased the household energy price cap by 54%, making gas prices overwhelmingly high for many. Moreover, an increase in Council Tax, National Insurance, and comparatively minuscule minimum wages have all participated in slowly squeezing the noose tighter around the necks of low-income earners.  

WHAT ABOUT HUMAN RIGHTS?

In response to the consistent rise in the cost of living, many individuals are finding it increasingly difficult to pay for necessities. According to a survey by the ONS in 2022, 77% of UK adults are worried about the rising cost of living.  As well as this, in February 2022 alone one million adults went a whole day without eating due to higher prices. It is evident that many within the UK are suffering due to the cost of living crisis.

Charity Spotlight: Independent Food Aid Network

• With fears that many food banks will be depleted and unable to meet increasing demand this winter, the Independent Food Aid Network (IFAN) aims to tackle food poverty across the UK. As the cost of living crisis develops, IFAN found a nearly 90% demand in food bank supplies from April 2022, becoming a lifeline for people who cannot afford their next meal. 

HOW CAN YOU HELP?

Opportunities with Independent Food Aid Network:

• Donate on their website to support the organisation’s advocacy work and day-to-day running

• Join one of their upcoming events, including their ‘Worrying about money?’ leaflet launch

• Become an IFAN member to participate in research, conferences, and projects with IFAN

You can find out more on their website: https://www.foodaidnetwork.org.uk

Internal and External Opportunities

Internal Opportunities

• The online Volunteer Hub portal can be located on the UoM Student Union website. You can search and apply for volunteering opportunities and record your hours, which can be used to count towards the Stellify Award as well as the Manchester Leadership Programme. Information on how to sign up to worthwhile causes can be found on the volunteering website at: http://www.volunteers.manchester.ac.uk

External Opportunities

StepChange

• • One of the many charities tackling issues caused or exacerbated by the cost of living crisis, Step Change helps those struggling with debt. The organisation offers free advice, linking people with financial support and respite periods to cope with debt. In 2020, around half a million people contacted the charity for help with financial issues. The charity also campaigns across the UK to incite policy changes around the subject of financial debt. 

You can donate and learn more at: https://www.stepchange.org

• Acorn

  • Acorn is a community-based organisation that aims to empower communities to fight back at the causes of the cost of living crisis. Acorn in particular helps those struggling against ‘bosses, landlords, or politicians’, reinstating the rights that have been taken from individuals in low- and moderate-income communities. 

You can learn more and join at: https://www.acorntheunion.org.uk