Cost of living ‘the most important issue facing Londoners’

Londoners have named the cost of living as their biggest worry.

A survey commissioned by London Councils found that 75% of people in the capital consider living costs their main concern.

That put it well ahead of other issues including:

• housing affordability - 59%
• crime and policing - 55%
• NHS/GP services - 48%
• homelessness and rough sleeping - 46%
• environment and climate change - 29%
• women’s safety - 29%
• public transport - 21%

This is the third year in a row that people in London have named the cost of living the biggest issue facing the city.

Who’s worried about the cost of living?

Private renters are particularly concerned about living costs right now, with 83% citing it as their top worry.

That compares with 72% of people who own their own property.

Figures also showed that 81% of people from a minority ethnic background are worried about living costs, compared with 72% of white people.

Interestingly, concerns about the cost of living are widespread across people regardless of their employment status.

Figures showed it was an issue for:

• 74% of people not in work
• 76% of people in work
• 75% of people working full-time

What cost-of-living help can I get?

If you’re struggling with your day-to-day expenses, you could get help from your local council through the household support fund.

This provides targeted support help with essential costs such as:

• food
• energy bills
• water bills
• other essential living costs

You may also want to check if you’re entitled to any grants to help with the rising cost of living. 

Enter your details in the Turn2us grant checker and see if there are any you can apply for.

You can also turn to us for free and impartial money advice.

We can help you with:

•    finding out what benefits you’re entitled to
•    working out a household budget
•    finding the right debt solutions (some are free, while others have a fee)