During times of conflict, it is essential to prioritize the human suffering endured by those impacted by military actions. However, the consequences of such conflicts have exacerbated the already challenging living conditions for families like mine, who struggle to afford even the most basic necessities. Recent research from the Bank of England indicates that businesses will likely raise prices significantly in the near future, leaving us genuinely anxious about the financial burdens we will face.
What began as a temporary financial crisis following the invasion of Ukraine has evolved into an ongoing and challenging reality for many. The term “crisis” implies a situation that can be resolved, yet the ongoing struggle to make ends meet has become a daily norm for millions. This prolonged difficulty has made it seem almost routine, but having to make heart-wrenching decisions about which expenses to forgo is neither typical nor acceptable; it inflicts harm on countless families every day.
I am involved with Changing Realities, a collective of over 200 low-income parents who share their experiences of navigating life under financial strain. We unite from across the four nations of the UK to raise awareness about the realities of living in poverty and advocate for necessary changes, asserting that tomorrow must bring improvements over today. This advocacy is increasingly urgent as we witness soaring costs, with expectations of further escalation. As another parent, Mike, aptly stated, this situation has transcended a cost of living crisis; it has become a crisis of survival.
Families like mine have cut back as much as possible. My two daughters, who have disabilities, are entering their second year of primary school, yet our financial situation has not seen meaningful improvement in the last five years. While my partner is employed, I find it incredibly challenging to adapt my work schedule around my child’s complex needs, and the jobs I have held do not accommodate the urgent need for flexibility. Like many, we feel trapped by our circumstances, desperately seeking an escape.
We rely heavily on our vehicle, as my daughters struggle significantly with public transportation. This reliance comes with an unavoidable cost and contributes to the anxiety I feel over the rising fuel prices.
In recent months, some initial steps have been taken to address child poverty. This week marked the elimination of the two-child benefit cap, a policy that has kept many families in poverty, and there has been an increase in the minimum wage. Additionally, rail fares in England have been frozen. However, these measures only scratch the surface of the extensive support that is urgently required. Families with the least resources face the highest inflation rates, as a significant portion of their budgets is spent on essentials like food and energy, whose prices are rising the fastest.
Regarding emergency assistance, the government recently introduced the Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) in England, a modified version of the previous Household Support Fund. The CRF is designed to reduce dependence on emergency aid and foster financial resilience through various resources. While this concept is promising, it is impractical to rely on funds that are not available. Furthermore, accessibility to this support raises concerns. In my experience, one of the main barriers to receiving assistance is the bureaucratic process, compounded by council workers who often lack the knowledge to guide individuals in need.
Last week, Rachel Reeves pledged that her government would focus cost of living support on “those who need it most.” This initiative must be expedited, with the government recognizing that families with dependent children require additional aid, as they have more individuals to support and care for. The previous round of cost of living payments was distributed at a flat rate, offering the same amount to a single person as to a family of four like mine, which was illogical. I hope that the next round of support will be more equitable and effective.
Moreover, reforms are necessary for Universal Credit, a benefit that nearly half of all households with children now receive, following its decade-long rollout completion this week. Simple adjustments could enhance its effectiveness, such as eliminating the burdensome five-week wait for the initial payment and fostering greater trust in a system relied upon by so many. We collaborated with the Resolution Foundation to propose changes aimed at achieving these improvements, and I now implore the government to heed our requests and take action.
Ella Michalski is a member of Changing Realities, a collaboration of parents and low-income families from across the UK, working alongside researchers from the University of Glasgow, the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, and the Child Poverty Action Group.
