Rise in the cost of living "disastrous" for many Lincolnshire families

Cash
Author: Andy MarshPublished 19th Dec 2023

Citizens Advice say a significant rise in the cost of living this year has been particularly disastrous for families across Lincolnshire.

The Mid Lincolnshire branch - covering Boston, Sleaford and North Kesteven - revealed to us that over half of their clients this month are families.

They also say that more than a quarter are in employment.

We spoke to Clare Staunton who's a money advice case worker with the CAB in Lincolnshire.

Many people are fearful to turn the heating on

She told us: "We are seeing more and more people presenting with negative budgets."

"Their income just does not cover essential bills or items."

"People are looking at ways to cut costs with utilities as well".

"Many are fearful to turn the heating on but now that the cold has hit there is little choice."

"This is causing intense anxiety - people are also using foodbanks because there's not enough money to pay for essential items due to the increased cost of living."

We're also likely to see relationship issues including divorce and separation

"A significant number of people are not coping and this can deeply impact on their mental health and well being."

"Feeling low can make it very difficult to manage money and the continual worrying inevitably makes it worse."

"Going into the new year we're likely to see an increase in debt."

"We're also likely to see relationship issues including divorce and separation."

"This may be due to the additional pressures of Christmas."

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