Story by Joe Acklam

Londoners concerns about the cost of living is at its highest rate for ten years, according to a survey by London Councils. 

London Councils, in concert with Ipsos, have carried out their annual survey of Londoners opinions on various issues, and the 2022 edition found that 77% of the 1000 people surveyed listed cost of living as one of the most important issues facing them. 

This is a 15% increase on last year and the highest level since London Councils have been conducting the survey in the past decade. 

Women, private and social renters, people aged 45-54, and people in C2D2 households were the most likely to say that they were concerned about the cost-of-living crisis. 

This spirals into around one in four of the respondents saying that they were worried about the cost of things and are finding it difficult financially, with 67% saying they were struggling with energy and/or utility bills and 64% covering an unexpected household expense. 

45% said that they had not turned on their heating when they usually would, and 39% said they have socialised less because of increasing prices. 

23% said that they have had to use their savings to get by and 19% said their household income has decreased in the past year. 

Councillor Georgia Gould, chair of London Councils, said in a statement: "Over two thirds of Londoners are worried about the impact of the cost-of-living crisis. People who used to donate to foodbanks are now relying on foodbanks for support, the average rent has increased by 15% and as the cold weather hits, energy prices remain high. 

"The figures are stark and reflect the reality that councils across London are seeing in their communities. As we did during the pandemic, local government has once again stepped up to do everything we can to support our residents through this crisis. 

"We are opening up warm spaces, offering financial support and providing advice and guidance to those in need. 

"The next few months will be critical for families across the capital who are already struggling. We stand ready to work with government to meet this challenge and ensure the right support gets to those who need it." 

Other concerns in the survey which ranked highly were housing affordability, which 58% of those surveyed said was a concern, and 51% said crime and policing was a worry of theirs.