Hertfordshire hit hard by cost of living crisis
People are using less heating and eating fewer meals
The rising Cost of Living is hitting Hertfordshire residents hard, according to early findings from a Cost of Living survey.
In December Health Watch Hertfordshire launched a survey to find out how Hertfordshire residents were being affected and what support they need.
4500 people have already taken part with many saying they are using less heating, eating fewer meals and becoming increasingly worried.
80% of respondents are using less heating with 59% saying they have reduced the amount and/or quality of the food they’re eating – with some living in damp, cold and mouldy conditions and others eating only one meal a day.
70% said they have been affected a little by rising costs, but are managing, while 23% have been affected a lot and are struggling to cope; 38% either had not enough funds, or just enough, for basic necessities.
Geoff from Health Watch Hertfordshire told us peoples mental health has also been affected:
"People's mental and physical health has been affected and over 50% of people who have responded have said they've had problems with their mental health or had difficulty sleeping because of the stress of the situation."
People have also not been visiting the dentist or optician because they can't afford treatment with some not purchasing or reducing the dose of their medication to make it last longer.
If you're struggling you can contact Hertfordshire County Council website or call HertsHelp on 0300 123 4044.
If you want to take part, you have until the end of March and the survey can be found here.