Research shows that nearly half of parents who celebrate Christmas are likely to spend less on gifts for their children this year.
Meanwhile, 55% of parents of children under the age of 18 in Britain are likely to cut back on their spending on food and drink this Christmas, a survey by charity Barnardo’s has revealed.
Some 47% said they would likely cut back on gifts for their children.
YouGov surveyed 1,053 Christmas-celebrating parents, with 953 asking what they were likely to cut back on charitable causes in October.
After two years of Covid disruption, many of us are looking forward to returning to the normal pre-pandemic Christmas season. But for Britain’s most vulnerable children, a ‘normal’ Christmas can mean not having enough food, struggling to stay warm, being left without presents and feeling left out while others celebrate
The survey also found that 42% of parents plan to spend more on Christmas activities and entertainment for their children.
About 18% of respondents said they have no plans to cut back on their Christmas spending this year.
Barnardo’s is asking businesses and members of the public to ’embrace the season of giving’ by supporting its My Christmas campaign.
It is being launched to raise funds “for the many children who are likely to feel cold, hungry and abandoned” due to the rising cost of living this Christmas.
Funds can help provide families with grocery parcels or supermarket vouchers, warm clothes for children, Christmas presents or gift vouchers and Christmas parties for children supported by Barnardo’s.
The charity’s chief executive, Lynn Perry, said: “After two years of disruption due to Covid, many of us are looking forward to getting back to a normal pre-pandemic Christmas.
“But for Britain’s most vulnerable children, a ‘normal’ Christmas can mean not having enough food, struggling to stay warm, going without presents and feeling left out while others celebrate.
“We want all children to feel safe and happy at Christmas, but we know that’s not possible until their basic needs are met.
“With food and energy costs soaring this year, our research shows many parents are facing extra pressure to create a special Christmas for their families at a time of unprecedented financial strain.”
Anyone wishing to donate or support can visit barnardos.org.uk/christmas
https://www.standard.co.uk/business/business-news/almost-half-of-parents-likely-to-spend-less-on-christmas-presents-for-children-b1036562.html
