Outcomes from our cost of living survey
Thank you to everyone who gave their feedback in our cost of living survey, sent in October last year.
The survey was sent to understand how the increasing cost of living is impacting our customers' ability to afford rising bills or other payments.
Our top priority remains the same: supporting our customers, and the feedback given has provided us with key insights that we will use to focus on our cost of living support this year.
What were the results from the survey?
4,868 customers have provided us with key data by responding to our cost of living survey, letting us know how increasing costs were impacting them. This is our largest response to date. Here’s what we found:
- One in two of our rental customers across our geography reported that they’ve gone without food or heat in the last six months.
- Many customers working additional hours or working rather than retiring, in order to pay bills.
- 71% of customers had used at least one alternative method of financial support in the last six months.
- 67% of shared owners worry about meeting monthly expenses.
We’re continuously monitoring the situation and following the survey, we are:
- Using what you told us to refresh our approach to the cost of living in 2024.
- Using your responses to understand which customers are most in need of tenancy support.
- Contacting customers that asked to speak to us about their rent and/or housing payments.
If you’re struggling to pay bills, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
We have specialist teams who can give you information, advice and support on maximising your income, budgeting and other tenancy related issues. Call us on 01344 382 800 to discuss your situation and find out how we can help.
And don’t forget you can access the Abri group’s free Employment Services
We can help you with everything from writing a CV to interview preparation, and advice on how to access training or apprenticeships. Whether you’ve been out of work for a while and are looking to build up your confidence, or are thinking about a career change, our friendly team can support you in achieving your goals. You can contact the team via email at ESDepartment@abri.co.uk, visit our Employment support webpage or come and see us at our Opportunities Hub on Wednesdays between 12-2pm at Priestwood Community Centre, Priestwood Court Road, Bracknell, RG42 1TU.