Cost of Living
UK diesel prices hit record high as Middle East conflict drives up costs
UK diesel prices have surged to a record 199.33p per litre following Middle East conflict, triggering severe cost pressures for motorists, hauliers, and charities.
May bank holiday DWP payment date changes confirmed for benefits and pensions
Millions of UK households relying on DWP benefits and state pensions face altered deposit schedules ahead of the upcoming May bank holidays.
Andy Burnham admits cost of living help is insufficient and hints at further support
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has acknowledged that his initial cost-of-living measures fall short, raising expectations of further relief in the autumn budget.
Living Wage Foundation finds third of low-paid UK workers have no savings
Nearly a third of low-paid UK workers now possess zero savings, leaving millions severely exposed to financial shocks amid rising costs.
Asda data shows UK household spending power falls to six‑month low
UK household spending power has dropped to a six-month low as surging essential costs outpace ordinary wage increases, according to fresh Asda data.
Over 60s unlock free NHS prescriptions and hidden UK discounts
Reaching certain age milestones across the UK unlocks a range of financial perks, from free NHS prescriptions to supermarket discounts and transport concessions.
UK inflation rises to 3.1% further complicates Bank of England meeting
UK inflation rose to 3.1% in August due to soaring fuel and energy costs, increasing pressure on policymakers as they prepare their interest rate decision.
UK inflation rises to 3.1% in August as fuel costs surge
UK inflation climbed back above three per cent in August driven by soaring fuel costs, placing renewed pressure on households and the Bank of England.
UK chancellor urged by 120 groups to remove green levies from energy bills
A coalition of more than 120 organisations has petitioned the UK government to remove policy levies from utility accounts to ease cost-of-living pressures.
Sussex University student skips lectures over bus fare costs
Rising commuting costs are forcing university students to skip lectures when single classes fail to justify expensive bus fares. This reflects a broader financial squeeze across higher education.
UK inflation rises to 2.9% in July after energy bills spike
UK inflation climbed to 2.9% in July following a sharp increase in household energy bills driven by Ofgem's price cap adjustment.
Canadian families spend 42% of income on taxes, outpacing basic needs
The average Canadian household now allocates 41.9 per cent of its cash income to taxes, surpassing the 36 per cent spent on food, shelter, and clothing combined.
Burnham to ban fake discounts and curb subscription traps
Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced a dual crackdown to outlaw deceptive was-price sales and fast-track new rules on recurring subscriptions.
Andy Burnham to tour Britain in effort to reconnect government with public
Prime Minister Andy Burnham is embarking on a national tour this coming week to unveil financial support policies and connect with the public.
Andy Burnham launches nationwide cost-of-living tour to shape ten-year plan
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has embarked on a nationwide listening tour to gather public feedback on everyday expenses and inform a new ten-year strategy.
Andy Burnham launches UK tour to hear public cost-of-living concerns
Prime Minister Andy Burnham is launching a national tour across Britain to ask voters directly how the government can improve their lives amidst cost-of-living concerns.
West Midlands low-income families pay 241m poverty premium
New research reveals that low-income households in the West Midlands pay an extra £241m a year in high costs for everyday essentials, ranking the region second worst in Britain.
Labour tops polls for first time in 16 months after Burnham’s first week as PM
Labour has surged to the top of national opinion polls for the first time in months, following the opening week and cost-of-living measures of the new administration.
Andy Burnham's first week pledges total £1.5bn as he launches No10 North
Andy Burnham has opened a new northern government hub in Manchester, marking the start of his premiership with a suite of measures totaling £1.5 billion. The initiative aims to balance power between the capital and the regions, though critics have raised concerns regarding funding and the move's long-term impact.
Andy Burnham announces energy VAT cuts and bus fare cap reinstatement
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has introduced economic measures, including energy VAT cuts and a reinstated bus fare cap, to address cost-of-living pressures.