Millions of Britons are preparing for a potential 'major disruptive event' by stockpiling cash and tinned goods, according to a new survey by Link, the UK's ATM network. The research indicates that fears over natural disasters, cyber-attacks, and power outages are driving households to engage in contingency planning.
The survey found that 54% of respondents would withdraw cash from an ATM if card and mobile payments were not accepted, while 46% would rely on supplies at home. Notably, 15% said they would use a dedicated stash of cash kept specifically for such scenarios. In terms of preparations already undertaken, 49% have battery-powered items like torches, 47% have a supply of tinned food, and 37% keep a power bank for phone charging.
Other measures include access to a portable gas hob (20%), an analogue radio (15%), and a stash of cash at home (17%). Just over a quarter (27%) have not taken any preparatory steps. Of those who have acted, 23% did so within the last three months.
Graham Mott, Link's director of strategy, said the data highlights the growing role of cash in resilience planning. 'With rising public concern about threats like power outages, cyber-attacks and disruption to card payments, more people are prepping by keeping some emergency cash at home,' he added.
The UK government's Prepare website advises assembling emergency supplies including tinned food, bottled water, a first aid kit, and a battery-powered torch and radio. Specialist 'prepper' shops have also seen a boom in the aftermath of the Covid lockdowns.
