Cost of living crisis grips UK as half of households struggle with essentials

WorldBusiness & Finance
30 Mar 2026 • 2:44 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Almost half (49 per cent) of UK households are struggling to afford everyday essentials, according to a new Which? survey.
  • This financial strain is forcing many to dip into savings or sell possessions, with 26 per cent of households regularly using savings.
  • Consumer confidence in the UK economy has plummeted to its lowest level since late 2022, reaching minus 56.
  • A significant majority, 67 per cent of UK adults, anticipate the national economy will worsen over the next year.
  • Which? urged those struggling with bills to contact their providers and seek free, independent debt advice.

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