Families cut back on food to keep warm this winter

A rising number of UK families are cutting back on food spending to pay for their energy bills.

Research from a price comparison website found that 43% of families are reducing their food shopping so they can heat their homes this winter. A further 82% of people are worried about how they will pay their energy bills in the future.

Household bills have risen significantly over the last year, fuelled by the summer price hikes for gas and electricity. Now, households are going to extremes in order to pay for their growing energy bills.

65% of people confessed in a recent poll that they were cutting back on other ways to save money for winter bills. An additional 27% of people claimed they are being stringent with other household bills to afford the increased energy costs.

Personal finance worries

It may come as no surprise that the nation is currently more concerned about their finances compared to six months ago.

The latest research from a financial price comparison website found that 47% of Brits state their level of concern over their personal finances has increased in the last six months.

Savings are the number one concern for people, especially those aged over 55. Pension retirement planning and pensions caused the highest level of concern for those aged 35-54.

Karen Barrett, Chief Executive at unbiased.co.uk, comments; "Given the economic climate over the last few years, financial planning should be at the forefront of everyone's minds. Careful planning could make a real difference to both your current financial situation and also securing your future.”

"Mortgages, pensions and savings for children are just a few of the pressures and considerations facing consumers right now and therefore imperative for people to get as much information and help as possible to get on track.” 

Save money with our Money Savings Team

If you're worried about how you will pay your energy bills now or in the future call our Money Savings Team today on 0844 826 2537 to find a better deal. On average we save our customers £150 on their gas and electricity bills. Note, if you're calling from a mobile it may be cheaper to call us on 01257 486 961.

We can also help you switch to a better deal for phone and broadband, life and home insurance and pensions. If you're looking to make a PPI claim we can support you with this too by helping you win back the money you've paid into policies, which averages out at around £2,500.

Moneyextra.com recommends you take independent financial advice before acting on any article

2011-11-16 16:34:12 © Moneyextra.com