Our new study into how the cost of living increases, including high fuel prices, are impacting the lives of drivers in the UK. The results proved that many people are having to choose not to drive in order to continue to afford to live, meaning that many of their usual activities can no longer take place.
Shockingly, nearly two thirds of UK residents (58%) admitted that they will no longer be able to take part in their hobbies, such as fitness classes and grassroots sport. This jumped to a whopping 90 percent in the under 34s age group, who are arguably the most affected by crippling fuel and energy bills
This is particularly worrying in the context of the proven impact sports and fitness has on mental health in young people. It has been well documented that mental health problems in younger people – particularly men – have seen a huge increase in the past few years.
The research showed that where you lived had a strong impact on how many people felt they could no longer afford to take part in sports. The study showed that:
- 74% of people in Scotland would be forced to cut back on hobbies and sports
- Glasgow was the most affected city, with a total of 79% across all age ranges admitting they can’t afford to continue hobbies and sports
- Cardiff was the second most affected city, with a total of 68%
- 90% of under 34s, 58% of 34-55s, and 35% of over 55s would be forced to stop
The research also showed shocking stats on families cutting back on their children’s hobbies. Seventy percent of parents said they would have to cut back on their children’s activities such as grassroots sports, because they can no longer afford the fuel costs and fees.
The study showed that:
- 70% of parents may have to cut back on driving their kids to sport clubs or hobbies
- Young parents are most affected, with 90% considering cutting back.
- Regionally Scotland showed the highest impact, with Edinburgh showing 86% cutting back, Glasgow close behind at 83%.
- Birmingham was also hugely affected with 81%, Newcastle 80%, Leeds 73%, London 76%, Nottingham 76% and Manchester 65%.
Founder of ChooseMyCar.com, Nick Zapolski, said that the research is heartbreaking.
“It is clear that the spiralling costs of living are forcing people to choose between running their car and eating – it’s really a case of Drive or Survive. It’s terrible to see the impact this is having on everyday people.
“Staying active and playing sports is so important to both the physical and mental health of many young people. It’s really devastating to discover that so many people – nearly all those who were asked – will not be able to carry on doing these activities.
“The cost of living crisis and the still too high fuel costs are having repercussions far beyond people cutting back on luxuries – having to choose between driving and surviving. That’s why ChooseMyCar.com feels compelled to sponsor some young people’s teams, to try and help in some small way. We’d encourage sports teams to get in touch with us if we can help.”
ChooseMyCar.com are also looking for more sponsorship opportunities and clubs in need of new kit should apply at https://choosemycar.com/resources/news/win-a-kit-for-your-grassroots-team.
