New research we’ve conducted with Walnut Unlimited highlights that our Make Theirs Magic campaign is needed more than ever.
It shows that 50% of adults will be going without things such as food, heating and presents this Christmas because of the cost-of-living crisis.
The nationally representative survey found that this Christmas, because of the crisis:
“50% of adults will be going without things such as food, heating and presents this Christmas because of the cost-of-living crisis.”
As heartbreaking as these facts are they also outline the current situation, and remind us why we do what we do.
Situations like these are why our Food Clubs and National School Breakfast Programme help feed families with financial challenges, why we provide financial support through our grants programmes and why our Toy Appeal strives to get toys into the hands of children who might otherwise go without.
But it’s not just the physical symptoms of the crisis we’re tackling.
Our 24/7 helpline FamilyLine stays open throughout the holidays to provide support to those who need it most.
Family Action Chief Executive David Holmes CBE said: “For many of us, Christmas is a magical time, when friends and families come together to enjoy great food, good cheer, gifts and goodwill. However, through our work every day with vulnerable families across the UK, and from the findings of our new survey, we know that many families will be struggling more this year than ever before.”
“It is desperately sad that this Christmas, over a third of people are expecting financial pressure from the cost-of-living crisis to affect their mental health and wellbeing and nearly half of all adults are facing worries about affording food over the festive period. This is a stark reminder of the challenges facing families this Christmas.“
“Nearly half of all adults are facing worries about affording food over the festive period.”
It will be a difficult time for many families, but the survey also shows that two-thirds of people believe it is quality time together that makes Christmas magic, so we will be Counting down to Christmas with a series of real-life stories and resources to help enhance this sharing aspect of the season and help people navigate what may be a difficult time.
David concludes: “We know that families are worried, not only about how they will afford Christmas, but how, in light of the current financial crisis, they will bring the magic of Christmas to their family this year.
“Many families are having to make impossible decisions – whether to heat their home, purchase food or buy their children a present. This Christmas, you can help Family Action to support families, by giving the gift of a magical Christmas – that’s real magic.”
Find out more about our Make Theirs Magic campaign and how you can help support our life changing work.
If you’re struggling or need support during this difficult time, contact our free FamilyLine service for support.
