For the last two years we’ve been living in very uncertain times, in fear, in isolation, separated from our loved ones, passed from pillar to post under the yoke and tyranny of one farcical lock down rule to yet another even more ridiculous one, not knowing if we were coming or going, obeying these rules even though they were a contradiction in themselves under a dark cloud of punitive consequences if not obeyed. And just when we thought it was all over, on the very day dubbed by Social Media as “Freedom Day,” we woke up to the news of War in Ukraine. The irony of that headline. 

Then, when we thought things couldn’t get any worse “The Cost of living Crisis” was waiting in the wings ready to hit us with a sledgehammer. The fall out of Brexit was already showing its ugly face and we witnessed staple foods increasing not by pennies but 25/30p a go. Household fuel prices have risen on average 54% by April 2022, groceries are 5.2% higher than last year and there are shortages of some groceries pushing the price up even higher.

Petrol & Diesel has gone up in price which not only affects domestic use but also those who deliver and transport a wide range of commodities to a variety of consumers. So with all this going on around us it will affect each and everyone one of us differently, from those who can cut down on nights out, limit their take always each month and maybe spend less on clothes to those who are experiencing living on the bread line already and will now be choosing to use heat or eat. For those who were already living in poverty and were already making the heat or eat choice, for those on the streets who would see the heat or eat choice as a luxury,  things are really grim.  

You see whatever your financial status is right now you will be sliding down into the lower bracket. Oh and by the way food banks are at breaking point due to more demand and less donations!!!! As I’m writing these facts and figures down, I’m scrolling through reports trying to find anything positive or the slightest glimpse of hope for the near future but sadly nothing. This makes me feel anxious, sad and sick to my stomach its a very bleak time.