A stark new poll has laid bare the profound anxiety gripping British households as the festive season approaches, revealing that the ongoing cost of living crisis threatens to overshadow Christmas for millions.
Winter Worries and Widespread Concern
Research conducted by Amnesty International UK and Savanta shows that a staggering 67 per cent of people in the UK are worried about being able to afford essential items this winter. The data, released on Friday 21 November 2025, indicates a nation deeply concerned about making ends meet, with many fearing they will need to cut back significantly on heating and food during the colder months.
The poll highlights that financial anxiety is not evenly distributed across the population. Concern is particularly high among those aged 35-54, a group often burdened with childcare and mortgage costs, with 75 per cent fearing they will need to reduce spending on essentials.
Public Sentiment and Political Pressure
The findings also deliver a powerful message to the government ahead of the upcoming Budget. A significant 69 per cent of the public feel that the government is not doing enough to address the cost of living crisis. This sentiment persists even as Chancellor Rachel Reeves has acknowledged that the cost of living remains a 'big burden' for families, despite a recent dip in inflation figures.
In response to the poll's findings, Amnesty International UK is demanding a “fundamental political reset” to prioritise the eradication of poverty. The organisation suggests that, as a minimum first step, the government should consider scrapping the two-child benefit limit, a policy they argue exacerbates financial hardship for many families.
A Call for Action This Christmas
As Britons prepare for a Christmas under the shadow of a financial squeeze, the call for more substantial support is growing louder. The poll underscores a clear disconnect between public experience and political action, setting the stage for a challenging winter where the ability to afford basic necessities, let alone festive treats, is a primary concern for the majority of the country.
