Poverty of action

While employment levels are increasing, the reality behind the figures is not so positive. Millions are working in low paid and insecure jobs, and being hit with food and energy costs that have soared above inflation.

Most of our users are struggling to cope on a low income – over half have annual household incomes of less than £10,000.

Two-thirds rely on financial support from friends and family, over three-fifths have been forced to cut back on food and heating, and more than a fifth use payday lenders.

We’re working to raise awareness of the support available from UK charities. Anyone who is struggling can use our free grants search tool at www.turn2us.org.uk to identify charitable funds that may be able to provide support.

We know that people in financial difficulty can be reluctant to turn to charities for help, and as a result go without essentials or take on debt, exacerbating the problem further.

Alison Taylor, director of Turn2us

Shepherds Bush Road

London W6

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