The average frontline nurse is around £10,000 worse off now than a decade ago.
One in ten healthcare staff say they are planning to work on Christmas Day specifically to save money.
New research by Health Service Discounts reveals that a staggering 90% of healthcare workers are more worried about the cost of Christmas this year than last.
Two in five (41%) nurses, doctors and other health service personnel say they plan to do overtime to boost their festive budget, while 17% say they will be forced to result to take out loans.
In order to save money, nearly half (44%) have said they do not plan on using their heating.
Even more shockingly, 7% of healthcare workers revealed that they will have to resort to using foodbanks over the festive period.
Stress and financial strain.
Managing Director at Health Service Discounts, Storm Postlethwaite, said: “Our research has highlighted how much pressure the cost-of-living crisis is putting on people’s wellbeing across the UK as we approach Christmas.
“This is particularly evident among healthcare workers, who work so hard to help the nation get through difficult times.
“No one wants to have to cut back at any time of year, let alone Christmas – and cutting back is likely to only do so much to alleviate financial strain, and the stress that comes along with it.
“While discounts may not be the be-all-end-all solution to the cost of Christmas this year, we hope that our free Health Service Discounts membership service will help those employed in the health sector to save over the festive period and ease some of their worries. We truly believe that they deserve this extra helping hand.
