The children’s charity also revealed that 40% of parents had to borrow money at least once to cover basic needs for their children.

These findings come from Barnardos’ fourth annual cost-of-living report, based on a nationally representative survey of 1,000 parents conducted by Amárach Research. While the number of families reducing or going without heat and electricity has dropped slightly compared to 2024, Barnardos attributes this to falling energy prices rather than improved financial stability.

The report highlights that nearly half of families cut back on essentials, and 19% reduced or skipped meals due to financial pressure. Alarmingly, 40% of parents said they limited their own food intake to ensure their children had enough, while 12% relied on food banks.

Cost of living pressures were reported to negatively affect 78% of children, with 19% significantly impacted – a rise from 18% in 2024. This equates to around 200,000 children. Lone parents and younger parents (aged 18-24) were especially vulnerable, with 50% of single parents cutting back on clothing, and 25% reducing heating usage.

Social exclusion is also on the rise. More parents reported cutting back on children’s extracurricular activities, with 16% reducing spending on school events. Some children even missed birthday parties due to a lack of money for gifts.

Barnardos CEO Suzanne Connolly described the findings as “very stark”, emphasising that no child should go without essentials like food, warmth, or participation in social and cultural life. She called on the government to act, proposing increases in child benefit and extending the fuel allowance to low-income working families. Despite past government interventions, Barnardos says families are still under severe pressure and need targeted, sustained support.