Stories

Fri, 23 Oct 2026

Fri, 23 Oct 2026 'I live in the dark': How rising bills are shaping daily life

Errol McGuiness says he has changed his daily routine to cope with higher household bills.

* A 79-year-old pensioner Errol McGuiness has changed his daily routine to cope with high household bills by collecting rainwater, wearing extra layers, and living in a single room without lights.
* New figures show inflation rose to 3.5% in September, its highest level for almost a year, while higher fuel prices have pushed up living costs for many households.
* Almost two-thirds of low-income families say they struggle to afford essentials such as food, heating, and clothing, with many skipping meals or reducing portion sizes to save money.
* Prime Minister Andy Burnham has promised measures aimed at easing pressure on household finances, including removing standing charges from gas bills.
* Pensioners are among those feeling the strain most acutely, with centre manager Millissa Beydilli saying that elderly people should not have to choose between food and other essentials.