Mon, 31 Mar 2025

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 Single parents hit hardest by 'awful April' bill rises

A series of household bills, including water, energy and council tax, increase on Tuesday.

* Multiple essential household bills will increase in April, including water, energy prices, and council tax.
* Single parents, particularly those on low incomes, will be disproportionately affected as they already struggle with stretched finances.
* Many households on lower incomes spend a significant proportion of their earnings (around 41%) on unavoidable costs like water, energy, broadband, and car insurance bills.
* Families with children are more likely to spend over 20% of their post-housing income on these bills, leaving them vulnerable to price shocks.
* Official figures show that a fifth of families have no savings, making them more susceptible to financial difficulties.
* The minimum wage is increasing in April, but experts warn it may not keep pace with the rising costs of living.
* Ways to cut household bills include switching providers for broadband and TV services, checking for council tax reductions or exemptions, and installing a water meter.
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