For what feels like an eternity, Britain's headlines have been dominated by one recurring phrase: the cost-of-living crisis. From soaring energy bills and expensive groceries to rising housing costs and stretched household budgets, millions of families have spent the past several years navigating financial uncertainty.
The figures tell the story. Inflation reached a 41-year high of 11.1% in October 2022, pushing up the price of essentials at a pace many households had never experienced before. Although inflation has since eased significantly, prices have not returned to previous levels. Instead, many families continue to live with permanently higher costs. Food prices remain well above pre-pandemic levels, rents continue to climb across much of the UK, and housing affordability remains a growing concern. At the same time, charities continue to report strong demand for food banks and debt advice, while many working households say they are still struggling to make ends meet despite being in employment.
The crisis has lasted long enough to become part of everyday life. What was once viewed as a temporary economic shock has evolved into a long-term challenge affecting families, young professionals, pensioners, students and businesses alike.
But as important as it is to recognise these challenges, Britain cannot afford to remain trapped in a cycle of discussing the problem without moving decisively towards solutions.
To move the conversation beyond rising prices and towards real-world solutions, Asian Voice spoke to experts who share practical advice on navigating higher living costs while the government works to deliver long-term reforms.
Expert tips for tough times
As households continue to feel the pressure of higher living costs, experts say small, consistent financial changes can help families regain control and build greater resilience.
Monica Kaur, East London Partnerships Manager at the Money and Pensions Service, said budgeting is a crucial first step. "Budgeting is one of the best ways to feel more in control of your money," she said. "Start by looking at what's coming in and what's going out. Prioritise essentials such as housing, bills and food, then see what is available for savings and non-essential spending."
She encouraged families to use free budgeting tools, create an emergency savings buffer and review household bills regularly. "Check whether you're getting the best deals on energy, broadband, mobile phone contracts and insurance," she said. "Small savings across several bills can make a real difference."
Kaur also highlighted that many households may be missing out on financial support. "Benefits such as Universal Credit, Child Benefit, Carer's Allowance and Pension Credit often go unclaimed. Checking what you're entitled to could increase your monthly income."
Referencing the Money and Pensions Service's MoneyView 2026 survey, she noted that Asian adults are more likely than the UK average to experience lower financial wellbeing. She advised families to avoid unnecessary pressure to match others' lifestyles. "Everyone wants a good lifestyle, but don't feel pressured to keep up with friends or relatives. Spend within your budget and prioritise necessities before treating yourself."
Money worries don't have to cost your peace
As the cost-of-living crisis continues to put pressure on households across the UK, mental health experts say financial challenges do not have to become overwhelming. They highlight the importance of honest conversations, practical planning and seeking support early to protect emotional wellbeing.
Clinical psychologist Raisa Luther says money has become a major source of stress within families. "Money is one of the most common themes in ongoing family conflict," she said. "Have honest conversations about needs versus wants, and check in regularly to review spending and budgets."
Rather than hiding financial worries from children, Luther encourages families to have age-appropriate discussions. "Financial challenges should be seen as something the family navigates together, not as a personal failure," she said.
She also believes reducing spending does not mean reducing happiness. "Instead of seeing a simpler lifestyle as a limitation, see it as refreshing. Some of life's most meaningful moments are free—walking, yoga, cooking together or spending time outdoors."
CounsellorManjinder Gill says financial pressures can carry an added emotional burden, particularly within South Asian communities. "Financial stress is often accompanied by shame, guilt and the pressure to meet family expectations," she said. "Many people feel they have to cope alone, but financial hardship is a life challenge—not a personal failure."
Gill recommends focusing on small, manageable steps. "Create a realistic budget, prioritise essential expenses and have open conversations about money. These small actions can reduce anxiety." She adds that routines such as exercise, meditation, prayer, nutritious meals and social connections can help maintain wellbeing.
Accredited psychotherapist Hinal Patel says the first step is focusing on what can be controlled. "Constantly worrying about money fuels anxiety," she said, encouraging people not to carry financial concerns alone.
The experts agree that early action is key. Signs such as persistent anxiety, poor sleep, low mood, withdrawing from loved ones or avoiding bills should not be ignored. "Don't wait for a crisis," Luther said. Patel added: "Early help—whether through a GP, therapist or financial adviser—can make a real difference."
Stretch your budget without sacrificing health
Eating well during a cost-of-living squeeze does not have to mean spending more, according to author, speaker and educator Mallika Basu, who believes the key lies in cooking smart and reducing waste.
"There are lots of wholesome, nutritious and affordable ingredients that households can build their meals around," she said. "Eating out and takeaways can really add up for families."
Basu said home cooking does not need to be complicated. "Slow cookers, air fryers, pressure cookers and microwaves make cooking a breeze," she said, adding that batch cooking can help families save both time and money. "Make extra and freeze the leftovers for another day."
She also urged households to rethink food waste. "Buy what you actually need, then make sure you use what you've bought and eat what you've cooked." She recommends freezing ingredients such as bread, cheese and vegetables, while turning leftovers into versatile meals. "Simple stir-fries, vegetable curries and soups are brilliant 'use-it-up' meals."
Registered dietitian Fareeha Jay added that healthy eating does not have to come with a higher price tag. "The biggest mistake people make is relying on ultra-processed foods such as instant noodles and ready meals because they're cheap," she said. Instead, she recommends affordable staples such as lentils, beans, vegetables and pulses, alongside bulk buying rice and grains, choosing frozen produce and opting for supermarket own-brand products to keep costs down without compromising nutrition.
