LOW-income households in Bradford have seen no sign of their financial situation improving, despite a recovering economy, according to a national charity.

Turn2us claims that 84 per cent of low income homes are still struggling.

The survey, released to coincide with the charity’s annual Benefits Awareness Month, looks at financial struggles of households that experienced illness or disability, a change in their working hours, childbirth or family breakdown in the last year.

Almost three fifths (58 per cent) of households nationally, that experienced one of these changes, say their outgoings now significantly exceed their earnings, while more than a third (34 per cent) say their debt levels have worsened. A quarter (26 per cent) of those in full-time work said their debt had increased over the last 12 months.

Two-thirds of households are struggling to pay for food and other essentials, while two-fifths said the continuing struggle over costs was impacting on health negatively affecting their health.

Turn2us said that despite these issues, 34 per cent of low income households in the region have never checked their entitlement to benefits, with a fifth saying they would be embarrassed or ashamed to apply.

Alison Taylor, director of operations at Turn2us, said: “Many low income households are already struggling to afford basic goods - just one change in their situation is enough to push them into real financial hardship. Support is often available through the benefits system but many people are just not aware of the benefits they are entitled to.”