The cost of living crisis

In response to the cost-of-living crisis, Healthwatch Lancashire set up an online survey to investigate the experiences of Lancashire residents. There was a particular focus on the effects of the crisis on physical and mental health. The online survey ran from 13th January 2023 – 18th April 2023 and received 100 responses.

Data has been analysed and compared to the recent national data published by Healthwatch England. Findings revealed that 40% of respondents shared that their financial situation was ‘quite comfortable’ and 39% were ‘not very comfortable’. 13% shared that their financial situation was not at all comfortable.

A large proportion of respondents had made lifestyle changes because of the crisis including not turning the heating on, using warm hubs and cutting down on social spending. 43% of respondents shared that their physical health had declined since the cost-of-living increases, with a large proportion of these having an existing disability and/or long-term condition.

60% of respondents shared that their mental health had declined, which was significantly higher than the national average.

The findings of this project further support the issues raised nationally and highlight the importance of the recommendations raised by Healthwatch England.