East Sussex Citizens Advice offices have collaborated to publish a new report titled "No End in Sight for the Cost of Living Crisis," covering the period from April 2023 to October 2024. The report highlights the ongoing financial challenges faced by residents across East Sussex, with a continued rise in clients seeking assistance for crisis support, debt management, and benefits advice.
Key findings include:
Increased Demand for Support: There has been a steady increase in individuals seeking help with cost-of-living-related issues, particularly in managing energy bills, council tax, and purchasing essentials like food and clothing.
Rising Living Costs: Over the past three years, overall prices have surged by 20%, food prices by 30%, and energy rates by a staggering 75% forcing households to make difficult choices about essential expenditures.
Negative Budgets: Nearly 5 million people in the UK are now in a negative budget, accumulating debt just to get by.
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) Challenges: The report notes significant delays and complexities in the PIP application process. Clients are often left without crucial financial support during these extended periods.
Reliance on Charitable Support: There has been a substantial increase in the provision of charitable funds and foodbank referrals. In 2023, 1,229 clients were referred to foodbanks, with an additional 595 referrals in the first nine months of 2024.
The report underscores the persistent nature of the cost-of-living crisis in East Sussex and anticipates continued hardships for many residents as they face high energy prices, food cost hikes, and increasing rents.
Your local Citizens Advice remains committed to providing free, confidential, and impartial advice to help individuals navigate these challenges.
For more detailed information, the full report is available to download below
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