Cost of living crisis
Posted on August 18th, 2023
Author: Charlotte Barrett, Guest Blogger & MHF Volunteer
Welcome to the Muscle Help Foundation (MHF) charity’s latest blog which discusses the cost-of-living crisis and the additional worry and challenges this is having on families living with conditions such as Muscular Dystrophy (MD).
| “According to the Office for National Statistics, 60% of adults in Great Britain reported an increase in their cost of living in June-July 2023 compared to a month ago” Source: House of Commons Library |
Living with Muscular Dystrophy already brings with it many challenges without the cost-of-living crisis increasing expenses. Heating bills, specialist appointments, charging of electric wheelchairs and nighttime ventilators are just a few of the additional costs that many people living with muscular dystrophy are having to face on a regular basis.
In October 2022, Muscular Dystrophy UK published a report on ‘The impact of rising costs on people living with a muscle-wasting condition’. The key findings from their report showed that:
- Over 40% of respondents are in or have previously been in financial difficulty, with over 70% worried about their current financial situation.
- Over 59% have spent up to £10,000 on implementing and maintaining housing adaptations.
- Over half of respondents (51%) have spent up to £2,500 on wheelchairs, with over 65% spending up to £500 on wheelchair repairs and maintenance per year.
- 60% have spent up to £1,000 on installing and running hoists and lifts.
Muscular Dystrophy UK presented this report to the government with eight key recommendations to improve the cost-of-living crisis for those living with muscle wasting conditions. View their full report here.
There is no one immediate solution to ease the worry and concern but, currently there are a few ways in which you can receive support during the cost-of-living crisis, and we’ve pulled together some tips below:
- Cost of Living payments began in Spring 2023. Find out if you are eligible here.
- Support from utility providers.
- Check if you’re energy supplier is part of the Vulnerability commitment here.
- Find a list of available broadband and phone social tariffs here.
- Find information on help paying your water bill here.
Local Support
- England: Contact your local council about the Household Support Fund.
- Scotland: Grants may be available through the Scottish Welfare Fund. Crisis Grant, Community Care Grant and Self-Isolation Grant.
- Wales: Apply for the Discretionary Assistance Fund.
- Northern Ireland: Apply for Discretionary Support in extreme or crisis situations.
Here at MHF, we are on a mission to ensure families living with MD receive wonderful life experiences called Muscle Dreams that not only uplift but also improve social connection, confidence and self-esteem – the charity cares about your day to day lives and how we can support you, so we hope this blog is helpful.
