Many families across the UK are feeling the impact of rising costs. Higher energy bills, essential food expenses and the need for warm clothing all add pressure at a time of year when budgets are already stretched.

To understand what support would make the biggest difference, we surveyed our community of parents who have received a grant or are thinking about applying.

If families had £100 to spend this winter

This was one of the clearest insights from the survey and shows exactly where support is needed.

When asked how they would prioritise £100:

Although only 26% of respondents said their children lack adequate winter clothing, a much higher percentage would spend £100 on clothing first. This highlights the gap between what families feel they can afford and what they know their children really need.

Warm clothing is essential, but for many families it is pushed down the priority list because rent, bills and food have to come first.

What families say would make the biggest difference

Parents told us the types of support that would help most this winter. The most common answers were:

• Help with household bills
• Warm clothing and bedding
• Support for children with specific needs

When asked about the most desired form of assistance, families chose:
• 48% home heating assistance
• 26% financial help for clothing
• 11% food packages

These responses clearly show that parents know exactly what they need. Matching support to these priorities will have the biggest impact on family wellbeing this winter.

How you can help

With 63% of parents prioritising rent or bills over essentials for their children, your support can make a real difference.

A donation to FTCT can help provide warm clothing, bedding and essential household items that ease some of the pressure on families this winter.