The cost of living crisis is a real issue that is impacting families from every corner of our community, we know this.

With the rising cost of basic necessities such as food, housing, and energy, many parents struggle to provide for their children's needs.

I had a moment during my weekly shop at the weekend when it hit me that one of these needs is sun cream, which is essential for protecting children's skin from harmful UV rays.

The cost of sun cream can be quite high, especially for families on a tight budget.

As a result, it's apparent from the image I took, that some parents are feeling compelled to resort to stealing sun cream for their children - making the choice between committing a crime or putting their children at risk of sunburn and skin damage.

We at Citizens Advice will continue calling for urgent government help, and continue to carry out research and raise awareness of the cost-of-living crisis, as well as using the findings to strengthen our partnerships to create a joined-up network to support those who come to us for help.

It is important for governments and businesses to address the cost of living crisis and make essential items such as sun cream more affordable for families.

Parents should not be driven to stealing sun cream, to meet their children's safety and well-being needs.

If you have found yourself or know someone who is facing this choice, please get in touch with our service and we will do all we can to help you.

You can email via stevenagecab.org.uk or northhertscab.org.uk

The Herts wide Advice Line can be called on 0800 144 88 48. Opening hours are 10am to 9pm Monday to Wednesday, 10am to 8pm Thursday and Friday, and 10am to 4pm on Saturday.

Register now for our next cost-of-living briefing, which is now going to be taking place on Monday 24 July at 1.30pm. 

We’re delighted to announce that we’ll be joined by guest speaker Matt Hammerstein, CEO of Barclays UK alongside Dame Clare Moriarty, Chief Executive of Citizens Advice, who will discuss the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on mortgage holders.