THE Joseph Rowntree Foundation’s latest report exposes the record number of working families living in poverty in the UK.

As a charity helping people in financial hardship, we see the devastating impact this has.

While employment levels are increasing, the reality behind the figures is not so positive. Millions are working in low-paid and insecure jobs, and being hit with food and energy costs that have soared above inflation.

Most of our users are struggling to cope on a low income – more than half have annual household incomes of less than £10,000. Two-thirds rely on financial support from friends and family; more than three-fifths have been forced to cut back on food and heating and more than a fifth have turned to payday lenders.

It’s clear that many families are yet to see the benefits of economic recovery and more needs to be done to address low pay and the high cost of living.

In the meantime, we’re working to raise awareness of the support available from UK charities. Anyone who is struggling can use our free grants search tool at turn2us.org.uk to identify charitable funds that may be able to provide financial, practical and emotional support.

People in financial difficulty can be reluctant to turn to charities for help. With the gap between incomes and living costs increasing, it’s important everyone is aware of all the options.

Alison Taylor, Director of Turn2us, Shepherds Bush Road, London.