Workers concerned over inflationary pressures on lifestyle benefits

Large numbers of UK workers are concerned about the effect inflation will have on their lifestyle benefits.

A new study conducted by the Post Office has indicated 93 per cent of respondents are wary of the impact inflation will have on their finances.

The latest inflation figures will be published tomorrow (July 12th) and 19 per cent of people are unsure whether a rise would be greater than the interest being paid on savings accounts.

Despite being fearful of inflation, the research suggested that 72 per cent of workers did not know what the current rate was.

Director of savings and investments at the Post Office Richard Norman said: “With inflation currently higher than the interest offered by many savings accounts, people may find they’re effectively losing money on their savings.”

More firms may consider supporting staff with rising living costs when tailoring an employee benefits package, as a number of companies – including British Gas – have announced energy price hikes.

Employee benefits perks needed to counter utility costs

An increasing number of UK workers may be in desperate need of extra financial perks from their employer, as utility prices continue to spiral.

Today (July 8th), British Gas has announced it will increase gas prices by 18 per cent and electricity bills will go up by 16 per cent.

With many firms still sanctioning pay freezes following the recession, monetary bonuses issued through employee benefits packages could be a God-send for staff.

Citizens Advice chief executive Gillian Guy believes this latest round of price rises could force more workers into fuel poverty.

“All fuel suppliers need to make it very clear to customers why it is necessary to raise prices by so much now,” she remarked.

Homeowners may also be well served upgrading their abodes to make them more energy efficient, so that power consumption can be reduced.

Meanwhile, Consumer Focus has stated that the British Gas hike could “send a shock wave around the country”.