Looking after your health during the cost of living crisis
As the cost of living crisis challenges our basic human needs of staying warm, safe and having enough to eat, many of us are trying to adapt our spending to keep on top of outgoings and expenses.
For some, that has meant cutting back on lifestyle luxuries and non-essential expenditures. For others, tough decisions on monthly outgoings have meant going without vital healthcare or medication because the cost is too high.
However, you should prioritise your health. Please take a look at our tips to help you keep well.
Prioritise your health. If you have a chronic condition, a new illness causing concern or feel under the weather, seek the appropriate professional healthcare support. Many pharmacists can support you with everyday health concerns meaning you may not need to visit your GP. You should only go to a hospital in an emergency.
Take your Medication. Many of us take medication to stay healthy and manage existing health conditions. With the recent increase in prescription charges, rationing medication to save money may seem like a good idea, but it may lead to health complications in the long run. You might be eligible for support with your prescription with a Prescription Prepayment Certificate. Prescriptions are free for those over 60.
Keep your appointments. Please attend any pre-arranged or regular appointments with your GP, dentist, optician or hospital. If you are worried about the increase in transport fares, check out what support is available to help you when travelling to your GP, hospital or other NHS services here.
Talk to someone. Many charities offer free support if you need to talk to someone about your physical or mental health, and there are charities that provide financial advice if you're struggling. Many charities will be happy to point you towards further help in your community or local area.
Get the support you're entitled to. Ensure you are getting all the benefits and grants you are eligible for. Citizens Advice is a great place to start if you're looking for help on anything from housing and debt management.
Speak to your local council. Most local councils offer residents support and advice about the cost of living crisis. They may have a dedicated hotline you can phone or pop-up information events. Check out your local council website to find out more.
Seek help from a food bank. Many people buy less food because of current financial pressures, which can significantly impact physical and mental health. If you're struggling to feed yourself or your family, there is no shame in asking for help from a food bank. You can find food banks near you on the Trussell Trust website.
Need more support? Check out these helpful links for further advice and information on coping with the cost of living crisis:
Hygiene poverty is on the rise, are you affected?
Hygiene poverty has steadily risen since the start of the pandemic and has only worsened during the cost of living crisis. A reported 3,150,000 adults in the UK are now affected. That's 6% of UK adults, 5% of which are classed as "working adults".
"Hygiene poverty is not being able to afford many of the everyday hygiene and personal grooming...leaving us caught between being able to heat our homes, pay the rent, eat or be clean." - The Hygiene Bank
If you are struggling to afford personal hygiene products, help is available:
