The number of low-income households in the United Kingdom unable to afford basic essentials such as food and heating has reached a record high, according to recent research by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF). The study estimates that approximately 7.4 million households have gone without at least one essential item in the past six months, marking an increase from 7.1 million households reported a year earlier.

The findings, based on a survey of 4,121 households within the bottom 40% of incomes conducted between May 7 and June 5, reveal that the cost-of-living crisis is now affecting a broader segment of the population than previously seen. The report highlights that more than half (53%) of households not receiving means-tested benefits, such as Universal Credit (UC), are currently struggling to meet basic needs, up from 47% two years ago.

JRF’s analysis points to the rise in hardship being driven primarily by groups traditionally less vulnerable to material deprivation. Specifically, those not on means-tested support, homeowners without mortgages, families without disabilities or health issues, childless households, and households headed by individuals aged over 65 have seen the fastest increases in going without essentials.

Nevertheless, the most severely affected remain households dependent on Universal Credit, younger household heads (under 25), families from Black or mixed ethnic backgrounds, non-UK citizens, and those with three or more children or in single-parent families. The survey found that 84% of households receiving UC have been unable to afford one or more essentials in the last six months. Essentials examined in the survey include food, basic toiletries, heating, and suitable clothing and footwear.

Although recent statistics indicate that grocery price inflation has slowed to its lowest level since December 2024, the average household grocery bill for the year ending in July remains £156 higher than the previous year.

Chris Belfield, chief economist at JRF, emphasized the severity of the situation, noting that the cost-of-living crisis is not merely a matter of statistics but a reality for millions unable to cover fundamental needs. Belfield remarked that the new government led by Prime Minister Andy Burnham faces a significant challenge. However, he expressed cautious optimism, suggesting that policy interventions on rental controls, energy affordability, and the adequacy of Universal Credit could help alleviate the pressure on struggling households.