Rising cost of living survey V1

• Research type

  Research Study

• Full title

  Rising cost of living, adult health and wellbeing and childhood experiences in Wales

• IRAS ID

  320185

• Contact name

  Rebecca Hill

• Contact email

  rebecca.hill@wales.nhs.uk

• Sponsor organisation

  Public Health Wales

• Duration of Study in the UK

  0 years, 11 months, 31 days

• Research summary

  Living costs in the UK are rising, placing substantial financial pressure on households. These pressures are particularly felt among the lowest income households as they spend a greater proportion of their income on food and fuel. In Wales, in winter 2021, nearly 40% of households reported not being able to afford to purchase anything beyond essentials. However, the cost of living crisis is set to continue and is an important public health issue, which is likely to have serious consequences for population health and wellbeing. Certain population groups may also be at increased risk of poor outcomes related to the increased cost of living.
  Growing international evidence suggests that experiencing adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) such as abuse or growing up in a household affected by other stressors (e.g. substance misuse), can negatively impact life course health and wellbeing. Whilst research has predominantly focused on the impacts associated with experiencing a core set of ‘household’ ACE types, there is increasing recognition that research should measure a wider range of ACEs including those experienced outside of home environments. ACEs have been associated with having lower trust both in other individuals and public services, more broadly trust may be affected by the experience of trauma. The cost of living crisis is pushing many people into severe hardship and leading to negative physical and mental health. Despite support measures from the Welsh Government and third sector organisations, additional help may be required for population groups who may be disproportionately impacted by the rising cost of living. Understanding public perceptions of the health and wellbeing impacts of the rising cost of living will help to inform the design and delivery of further services and interventions to better support those in need and who may be at risk of poor outcomes.

• REC name

  N/A

• REC reference

  N/A