People’s concerns over the affordability of basic essentials are much the same as they were 100 years ago, a survey has found.

The Salvation Army commissioned a survey looking at whether social issues for families have changed from those identified a century ago around the time social reformer William Booth died.

Key points

• The main concerns for 1 in 5 parents with children aged 16 or under are affording basic needs such as food and clothing, and also getting into debt.
• For those in paid work, 1 in 10 people are worried about providing three nutritious meals a day for them and their family.
• Close to one-third of those surveyed who are in full-time paid work are worried about being able to afford to replace essential households goods such as a new bed, cooker or white goods. Just over a quarter worry about being able to pay their mortgage or rent.

A century ago, the Salvation Army notes, its workers found the main issues facing people included: the lack of ability to buy food and clothing; the fear of losing their homes; and the lack of jobs and employment opportunities.

Source: Press release 24 August 2012, Salvation Army
Links: Salvation Army press release | Guardian report