With petrol, gas, electricity, and food all becoming more expensive whilst our wages have stayed the same, it doesn’t take a genius to work out that there is much less money in our pockets at the end of the month.

But for those who were already struggling, the increasing cost of just about everything means that rather than just getting by, people have been forced to sacrifice the essentials.

New figures show 9,179 parcels were handed out at ten foodbanks run by the Trussell Trust in Colchester in the six months to the end of September – up 33 per cent from 6,897 over the same period in 2021.

The number of parcels handed out nationwide also soared to more than 1.2 million over the same period.

For those who have children to provide for, the struggles are greater still.

That is why the Gazette is looking to gain a closer insight into just who the cost of living crisis is affecting, and how.

What have you had to sacrifice? Have you had to start using a foodbank? And how do you see yourself getting through the winter?

These are questions more and more people are having to confront in what is going to be a difficult time.

Would you like to share your story with us and talk about the struggles you’re facing? Let us know.