A shocking new survey reveals a grim reality for families in the South West, where one in three parents are now rationing their heating to cope with the cost of living crisis. The research, conducted by YouGov for the charity Parentkind, exposes the deep financial and emotional strain on households, with many falling into debt and skipping meals. This report highlights the urgent challenges facing parents and children across the region this winter.
Cold Homes and Health Fears
The decision to turn down the thermostat is not one parents are making lightly. It is a harsh necessity driven by soaring energy bills, but it comes with severe consequences. The survey estimates that as many as 280,000 children in the South West could be living in cold, damp homes. This environment poses significant risks to their physical health and well-being.
Health professionals have long warned that cold living conditions can worsen respiratory problems and other illnesses, particularly in young children. The knock-on effect is undeniable, as poor health can impact a child’s concentration and performance at school, creating a cycle of disadvantage.
- 33% of parents in the region are rationing their heating.
- 280,000 children are potentially living in cold homes as a result.
- Cold and dampness are reported as major winter worries for families.
The findings underscore a growing crisis where basic needs like a warm home are becoming a luxury that many families simply cannot afford.
The Widening Debt Trap
The struggle to heat homes is just one piece of a much larger financial puzzle. The National Parent Survey data paints a stark picture of households pushed to their financial limits. A significant number of parents are now trapped in a cycle of debt just to cover essential monthly expenses.
Furthermore, the pressure to keep a roof over their heads is immense, with nearly a quarter of parents worried about their rent or mortgage payments. Alarmingly, 15% of parents admitted to skipping meals in the past year to save money for their families. Jason Elsom, CEO of Parentkind, described the survey as an “important insight into what is really going on with families,” noting that too many parents report being unhappy and worried about their mental health.
| Financial Challenge | Percentage of Parents Affected |
| Falling into Debt Every Month | 22% |
| Worried About Rent or Mortgage | 24% |
| Skipped Meals to Cut Costs | 15% |
Balancing Work, Well-being, and Worth
Despite the intense financial pressure, many parents in the South West are prioritizing time with their children over earning more money. The survey found that a remarkable 46% of working parents have chosen to reduce their hours to focus on their family.
This decision, however, adds another layer of financial strain to already struggling households. It also speaks to a broader societal issue, as 39% of parents in the South West feel undervalued by society, a figure significantly higher than the national average of 28%. This combination of financial hardship and feeling unappreciated is taking a serious toll on mental health, with 30% of parents in the region reporting struggles.
School Costs Add to the Burden
On top of household bills, the rising cost of education is another major source of stress. Half of the parents surveyed in the South West expressed concerns about affording school essentials like uniforms, trips, and meals.
This has led to overwhelming support for policy changes aimed at easing the burden. The survey found that 75% of parents back universal free school meals for all students. This support is even stronger for younger children, with 85% in favor of providing free meals for all primary school pupils. These figures send a clear message to policymakers about where parents need the most help.
