SEND TO A FRIEND     PRINT

Immediate Release: 16 December 2008

 

New research conducted by GfK NOP for UK direct grant-giving charity, Elizabeth Finn Care reveals today that over six and a half million people in the UK could be spending Christmas alone this year.

 

The greatest proportion of those likely to face a lonely Christmas belong to social classes D or E. Some 17 per cent from this group comprising semi and unskilled workers, old age pensioners, and individuals dependent on the State for their income will be spending Christmas on their own.

 

In the current economic climate, it seems that tightening finances could be hindering festivities. 12 per cent of respondents who will be spending Christmas alone signal financial constraints as the reason they will not spending Christmas in the company of others.

 

24 per cent of respondents who will be spending Christmas alone admitted that they feel sad or very sad about the prospect of a lonely Christmas.

 

However, despite pressure to buy presents for loved ones some 40 per cent of respondents can’t remember a single Christmas gift received last year.

 

Alex Scott, Elizabeth Finn Care beneficiary and spokesperson, said: “When you rely on State Benefits the cost of travel and buying even a small present can totally wipe out what you receive in benefits each week! So you either need to go without some essentials or simply avoid the occasion altogether.”

 

Bryan Clover, Director of Casework for Elizabeth Finn Care said: “Prior to seeking help from Elizabeth Finn Care, 55 percent of our beneficiaries couldn’t afford to visit family and friends. Many people isolate themselves because they feel too embarrassed to admit that they can’t afford to partake in activities that require a certain expense. This means that Christmas can be a very sad and lonely time for those who are living in poverty.”

 

 

Elizabeth Finn Care is the UK's leading direct grant-giving charity, dedicated specifically to helping people in poverty. In the past five years, Elizabeth Finn Care has given £13 million in direct grants.

 

The Charity's tailor-made packages include much-needed regular financial help, assistance with mobility, house and home repairs, transport and travel, back to work education and training, and general help around the home.