Warning as hundreds to get into debt to cover Christmas costs
Four in 10 households have relied on the generosity of others to get through Christmas – from hand-me-down toys to food.
A study of 2,000 adults who celebrate the festive period found 26% of these have received financial help with presents.
Nearly a fifth (18%) have accepted old toys and 36% had have received a helping hand with the food.
Overall, respondents reckon it will cost £700 to lay on Christmas for their family this year – including presents and food to decorations and travel.
But those who might struggle estimate they will be short by £150 to cover all the costs this month.
And worryingly, 20% are likely to get into debt to get through this Christmas.
The research was commissioned by Skipton Building Society to launch its Christmas toy donations collection for various charities, including Cash for Kids – Mission Christmas, with its branches nationwide accepting contributions.
One mum who relies on the kindness of strangers to get through Christmas is Sarah Reid, 44, from Bristol, who has a budget for this year’s festivities of under £100 for food and gifts for her entire family-of-four.
Sarah, who suffers from epilepsy, has been unable to work since 2021 and receives £1,500 each month in grants, like personal independence payments (PIP) and Universal Credit.
But with £1,800 to pay each month in rent and bills, she and her husband, Mark, 49, are left £3,600 in debt per year.
Sarah “wouldn’t be able to do it [Christmas]” without the goodwill of charities and relatives, and said it’s “heart-breaking” watching their youngest child make a Christmas list, knowing they won’t be able to afford anything on there.
But with the help of generous local organisation offering gifts, Sarah added: “It’s nice to be able to give the kids something for Christmas – we’ve previously got ourselves into debt, trying to buy them things brand new.
“We’ve used buy-now-pay-later and credit cards on our children’s gifts before.”
The research also found 39% of all those polled are worried about the cost of Christmas this year – with finding money for food and drink the leading concern (40%)
Others are nervous about the heating bills this December (39%), and the cost of presents (34%).
But 44% have experienced financial stress caused by Christmas in the past.
To get through the period, 27% cut back on savings contributions, while 19% reduced the number of everyday groceries they were buying.
With 20% considering selling personal belongings due to the struggle they have to afford the festivities.
Kenny Stewart, director of branches and money direct for Skipton Building Society, which is also donating £50,000 to Cash for Kids to support up to 1,000 children living in poverty this Christmas, said: “Christmas can be a particularly difficult time for families already struggling to make ends meet.
“The colder months bring rising costs for essentials like heating and food, and the pressure to create a special day can push many to their limits.
“For some, the only way to cope is by seeking help from their loved ones and charities to ensure their children don’t miss out.
“We want to give back to the communities in which we operate and hope the toy collections taking place across our branch network and the Christmas charity donation we’ve made supports the families who need it most – helping to ease the financial burden and bring a little joy during what can be a challenging time of year.”
The research, conducted via OnePoll, found 90% are always on the hunt for the best deals to save on Christmas expenses.
But 57% feel under pressure to spend more than they can afford at this time of year.
A spokesperson for Cash for Kids said: “Once again as cost-of-living pressures continues to hit families across the UK, we are anticipating a huge level of demand for support.
“Every contribution plays a part in ensuring struggling families can still create special moments, no matter their circumstances.”
How to save money on Christmas shopping
Consumer reporter Sam Walker reveals how you can save money on your Christmas shopping.
Limit the amount of presents – buying presents for all your family and friends can cost a bomb.
Instead, why not organise a Secret Santa between your inner circles so you’re not having to buy multiple presents.
Plan ahead – if you’ve got the stamina and budget, it’s worth buying your Christmas presents for the following year in the January sales.
Make sure you shop around for the best deals by using price comparison sites so you’re not forking out more than you should though.
Buy in Boxing Day sales – some retailers start their main Christmas sales early so you can actually snap up a bargain before December 25.
Delivery may cost you a bit more, but it can be worth it if the savings are decent.
Shop via outlet stores – you can save loads of money shopping via outlet stores like Amazon Warehouse or Office Offcuts.
They work by selling returned or slightly damaged products at a discounted rate, but usually any wear and tear is minor.
Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing money-sm@news.co.uk.
Plus, you can join our Sun Money Chats and Tips Facebook group to share your tips and stories