As the cost of living soars to unprecedented levels across the United Kingdom, an alarming number of our Mendip neighbours are feeling the squeeze.

Which?, a respected consumer watchdog, warns that approximately 8 million people in the UK face serious hardship. This stark reality is becoming clearer as more of us turn to credit and Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) schemes just to keep afloat.

One fact rings alarmingly clear in a sea of statistics: not all of us are weathering this storm in the same boat. The impact of the crisis varies widely across different consumer groups. After surveying 4,000 individuals nationwide, Which? identified six distinct categories that capture the essence of our experiences: 'Drained and Desperate', 'Anxious and At Risk', 'Cut Off By Cut Backs', 'Fretting About the Future', 'Looking out for Loved Ones' and 'Affluent and Apathetic'.

The 'Anxious and At Risk' group is in the spotlight today, comprising 7.9 million adults or 15% of the UK population, who are overlooked in terms of support. These individuals are more likely to be from larger households, often with children, and are using credit just to keep the wolf from the door.

One Mendip resident from this group revealed: "I have to use credit to make ends meet and I worry about debt. I have no safety net for emergencies and I will have to work past state pension age."

Given that interest rates continue to rise, it's only a matter of time before many in this group face significant financial strife.

So it's time to take a collective step towards navigating this crisis effectively. Ready to get started?

To unlock a treasure trove of resources and government advice tailored to your summer living costs, just click or tap on our 'Help for Households' banner on this page.

Here's a snapshot of what help is available in Mendip

Citizens Advice Somerset - your one-stop-shop for free, independent and confidential advice.

- Call: 0808 2787842

Community Council for Somerset - Community-based solutions are a call away with their Village and Community Agents.

- Call: 01823 331222

Somerset County Council - A portal to an array of helpful links, and their Household Support Fund offers financial lifelines for struggling residents.

- Call: 0300 123 2224

StepChange - For those overwhelmed by debt, they offer free online advice and a range of practical solutions.

Age UK Somerset - A dedicated service for our older residents, offering advice on fuel costs and benefits.

- Call: 01823 345610

Spark Somerset - Warm Welcome spaces provide companionship, comfort, and support amid the cost-of-living crisis.

Disability Grant - A comprehensive directory of grants for our neighbours with disabilities.

- Email: [email protected]

Mind in Somerset - A comforting resource for those feeling anxious or overwhelmed by the cost-of-living crisis.

Turn2us - Discover a directory of grants for individuals and a handy Benefits Calculator.

The time to act is now - as the cost of living continues to climb, our community is here to help you soar above the challenges.

Click on the 'Help for Households' banner at the top of this page to explore more, and remember - together, we can navigate these uncertain times.