Stirling CAB has launched its latest research report 'The Cost-of-Living Crisis' alongside a Cost-of-Living Crisis Survival Guide.
New analysis from Stirling District Citizens Advice Bureau Ltd shows a dramatic growth in demand for the bureau’s advice services relating to the cost-of-living crisis.
The March 2023 Stirling CAB report “The cost-of-living crisis – A snapshot of the affects on vulnerable citizens within Stirling” undertaken by the bureau’s volunteer Social Policy team has highlighted the following large spikes;
- Since 2020 there has been a rise of over 900% in clients seeking help with energy debt arrears.
- Since 2020 the bureau has also witnessed a rise of just less than 800% in the number of clients with prepayment meters requesting help to keep their meter in credit.
- Related to the above, over the same period the bureau witnessed a rise of just less than 1100% in clients seeking help with energy disconnection or the imminent threat of it.
A sample survey of food clients undertaken by the team revealed that since the Cost-of-Living crisis began:
- 93% borrowed money from friends/family to survive
- 81% reported falling into debt or further debt
- 64% skipped meals to pay for energy or other essentials
- 83% suffered deteriorating health
The research team expressed being ‘shocked’ at the increases in numbers as they were far and above their expectations. In order to address the situation the Bureau has published a guide available both online or from the bureau (01786 470239 or bureau@stirlingcab.casonline.org.uk) with informative advice and local initiatives to help mitigate the impact of the escalating costs of living crisis.
Stirling CAB CEO, Craig Anderson said: “The Cost-of-Living crisis is unprecedented and continues to have a devastating impact on the lives of many Stirling citizens. The need for advice, information and support around money, debt, shortages of fuel and food is huge and continues to grow. If anyone needs advice, please contact their local CAB and we will do our utmost to help. The Survival guide itself is a useful tool for citizens and for sister organisations working with people in crisis. If you would like a copy/or copies either get in touch or download from our website.
Editable versions of the guides are available for other bureau to adapt - they can be accessed here.