Number of families struggling to meet bills jumps 17%

THE number of families struggling to pay bills has increased from 44% to 61% in just over two years, the study reveals.

Almost two-thirds of the families with three-year- olds also said the recession has had a significant, or very significant effect on them.

Some 63% reported a reduction in wages, 54% said they cannot afford luxuries, 53% suffered social welfare reductions and a third had to cut back on basics.