The cost of living map, created by campaign group 38 degrees, highlights the concerns of hundreds of people across the UK as bills continue to rise into the winter months.

As the government's Autumn budget announced huge public spending cuts to tackle the financial crisis today (November 17), the map shows the real-life impact on people struggling to cope with rising energy, food, and fuel bills.

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Cost of living contributions from people in St Helens borough (Image: 38 Degrees)

With similar trends across the country, there are contributions from people across St Helens, classified in the borough's two constituencies.

From pensioners to workers, it offers a glimpse into the impact the cost of living crisis is having on people in our community.

Scared for the future

Angela Burton, a disabled pensioner living in St Helens South & Whiston, said: "The rising cost of living is worrying. As I am paying rent in a privately rented accommodation, I am worried that the rising cost of rent will make me homeless.

"[This is] my greatest fear as I have rheumatoid arthritis and COPD, which is making my condition worse.

"I have to put half of my PIP [Personal Independence Payment] in with the rent so I won't be behind. I am scared for the future."

Robin Gregory, a care home resident in St Helens South & Whiston, said: "I'm worried. I am now funding my own property and the care home costs in full.

"Pensions should be linked to inflation and are home costs should remain as they are - which is difficult enough already."

Tony Hull, a warehouse operative from St Helens North, said: "My energy bill has tripled in cost. As an agency worker, I'm lucky if I get a full day's work, never mind a full week."

Jennifer Hewitt, from St Helens North, said: "I’m busy juggling money to see if can I afford to keep warm or eat.

"I’m very concerned over food bills. If I get food, how do I cook it with the electric and gas going up all the time?"

Judith Lunt, a retired pensioner from St Helens North, said: "Things we used to enjoy, days out in the countryside, occasional meals at pubs and restaurants are now impossible for us.

"Our weekly income is now only just enabling us to buy essentials, no luxuries, and we are not able to treat our children and grandchildren."

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St Helens "paying the price for Tory failure"

Conor McGinn MP (Image: Conor McGinn MP)

Following the government's budget announcement, St Helens North MP Conor McGinn said it is ordinary people who are paying to "fix this mess".

Only Labour has a long-term plan to rebuild the country and economy, he said.

Mr McGinn said: "After today, people in St Helens and across Britain will be asking themselves: Am I and my family better off after 12 years of Tory government? The answer is no.

"The Tories caused this mess and can’t fix this mess. They are putting up taxes for working people and cutting spending in our vital public services.

"Families, pensioners, businesses, homeowners and workers in St Helens are paying the price for Tory failure.

"Only Labour has a long-term plan to get our economy going again to make sure people in places like St Helens get a fair share and the services we deserve."

Difficult decisions "necessary" to tackle record inflation

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt announced government spending cuts today (November 17) (Image: PA)

In his statement in the House of Commons, Chancellor Jeremy Hunt insisted the budget was not a return to austerity but said that “difficult decisions” were necessary in order to tackle inflation, now at a 41-year high.

Chancellor Hunt told the Commons: “In the face of unprecedented global headwinds, families, pensioners, businesses, teachers, nurses and many others are worried about the future.

“So today we deliver a plan to tackle the cost-of-living crisis and rebuild our economy.

“Our priorities are stability, growth, and public services.

“We also protect the vulnerable because to be British is to be compassionate and this is a compassionate Conservative government.”