Charities will be under increased strain this winter as a new poll of 67,000 people shows two in five UK residents are more likely to depend on charities during the cost-of living crisis.

Nearly a third of residents in Cumbria (32%) that took part in the research have admitted they are more likely than ever before to have to call on help from a charity.

While in contrast 22% said they are likely to reduce the amount they donate to charity due to the increasing costs they’re facing on their energy bills.,

While people may be planning to give less money, 30% of residents have said they’re more likely to volunteer their time instead.

Over half are more likely to support a local charity rather than a national or international one with 47% of residents choosing frontline charities supporting those most in need due to the cost-of-living crisis.

With charities facing increased pressure, Benefact Group’s Movement for Good Awards is giving away £120,000 as part of its annual 12 Days of Giving Christmas campaign. Residents are encouraged to nominate a charity online

Winners are drawn at random and the more times a charity is nominated the more chance it has of being selected.

Mark Hews, Group Chief Executive of Benefact Group, said: “It’s perhaps no surprise that people intend to cut back on their charitable giving at this time, and it is clear is that charities need help more than ever.

“Our annual £1 million Movement for Good Awards have helped thousands of charities across the UK and we’re asking people to take a few minutes of their time to nominate a cause they especially care about.

This year in June, 250 £1,000 awards were donated. A further 250 £1,000 awards were awarded in September followed by £500,000 of larger grants in October.

A special draw was recently launched to coincide with COP27, giving five environmental charities £5,000 each.

 

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