With the cost of living crisis following a global pandemic, things have been pretty bleak over the last several years in Harrow, and indeed the entire world.
Across the country people are starting to change their lifestyle habits to accommodate the worst financial crisis the country has faced in over 40 years.
The unfortunate truth is that if things continue to worsen, the next generation may not have the luxuries that we have become so used to in the last few decades.
A recent survey undertaken by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) has shown that over half of UK consumers have had to down on their energy usage as a result of the current financial crisis.
Soaring petrol, gas and electric, food and even clothing costs have come at a time when people are just starting to re-adjust to ‘normal’ life again following covid-19, a ridiculously challenging period for individuals and businesses across Harrow.
The ONS poll, which was carried out between 25 May and 5 June, showed that 41% of people are spending less on food.
The ONS poll also showed that 52% are using less gas and electricity as the cost of living crisis depends.
We asked members of the Harrow Online Group how the crisis has affected them, here are some of the responses.
“One tip I’ve found is to unplug devices when they’re not in use, really things don’t need to remain on standby such as tvs and game consoles as they are just draining electricity for no reason. Worth sharing I think as many people do it without even realising.”
“Rising fuel costs driven by the Ukraine/Russia war. Should have kept our noses out of it. Can’t just blame Covid for soaring costs.”
“I’m making food last longer by freezing leftovers – something I never used to do. It’s quite surprising how long a cook up of bits you find around the house can last for if you freeze them.”
“I am surprised full scale riots have not started up and down the country.”
“Fuel is the worst the government can put it up more and more because everyone needs it so we will all pay for it it’s gonna rise crime rates sky high soon. Robbing fuel, robbing supermarkets but can’t blame it.”
“Just keep things off. You don’t have to be charging devices overnight and you don’t have to be watching the tele all the time, it’s lucky it’s summer because when winter comes, that’s when things are really going to get tricky for people I reckon. This is the calm before the storm”.
“I’m not using my car nearly as much and I’m finding I’m actually losing weight lol. Also you don’t have to wash your clothes as much as people do, they lose colour anyway!! So maybe things will help people in the end with all of this.”
“I’m really struggling right now. Working self employed and not knowing how much is coming in each month is a real headache. I’ve not been affected as badly as some people but it’s still hard.”
“I am worried that crime in Harrow will increase due to people not having enough money or food. I think it’s a case of watch this space for a lot, it’s not really been noticed yet but it will mark my words.”
