Almost nine in 10 UK adults have taken steps to reduce household spending during the cost-of-living squeeze, a poll has found ahead of next week’s Budget.
The Savanta survey, conducted for the Institute of Research and Reforms (IRR) International, found that 87 per cent had made at least one change in the past six months to cut costs.
Two-thirds of respondents said they had reduced non-essential spending, including eating out and socialising. More than half, 51 per cent, had used their home heating less in an effort to lower energy bills.
About 40 per cent had switched supermarkets to reduce grocery costs, while 37 per cent said they had cut back on car journeys to save money on fuel.
Only 13 per cent said they had taken none of the measures listed in the survey.
The findings come after official figures showed Consumer Prices Index inflation rising to 3.5 per cent in September, up from 3.1 per cent in August. It was the highest rate since October 2025 and exceeded the 3.4 per cent forecast by most economists.
Petrol and diesel prices have contributed to the rise, with fuel costs increasing amid pressure on global oil and gas supplies linked in the survey material to US President Donald Trump’s war with Iran.
Chancellor John Healey is due to deliver the Budget next Wednesday and has said he will “look to do more” to provide “breathing space” on living costs. There is widespread speculation that any support could be focused on people receiving benefits.
The poll also examined how voters believe the Government should fund a £4.7 billion shortfall in current defence spending plans. Some 44 per cent backed reducing welfare payments to provide more money for the military, while 34 per cent opposed the idea.
A reduction in foreign aid spending was supported by 63 per cent of those surveyed. There was little support for raising taxes, increasing borrowing or cutting public services.
Ali Rehman Malik, chairman of IRR International, said: “The Government faces clear limits on what the public is willing to accept to fund higher defence spending.
“Tax rises and cuts to essential public services meet strong opposition.
“With almost nine in 10 respondents reporting reductions in household spending, ministers must recognise the economic pressures against which these decisions are being considered.”
Savanta questioned 2,130 UK adults online between 16 and 19 October.
