Your Voice Matters: Insights from the Belfast Citizens Panel

The panel, held in Belfast on 30^th September 2025, discussed two key issues – the rising cost of living and the local labour market. The full report can be found HERE.

The Cost of Living

Even though inflation has fallen from its peak of 11.1% in 2022 to 3.8%, many attendees said everyday prices still feel high. Key concerns included:

• Food and Utility Costs: These remain the most burdensome. Many have changed shopping habits, opting for discount items or local farm shops.
• Energy and Heating: Rising electricity and gas prices continue to frustrate many households, especially with limited competition in Northern Ireland’s energy market. Some said they are using blankets and layering up instead of turning on the heating to cut costs.
• Generational Impact: Young people are struggling to afford housing, while retirees find their savings stretched thin.
• In-work Poverty: A growing number of full-time workers are relying on food banks or community support.
• Housing Costs: Rising rents and mortgage payments are taking up a greater share of income, with some suggesting outside buyers are driving up prices in Belfast.
• Tightening Budgets: Many households say their disposable income has shrunk, making it harder to save or enjoy leisure activities.

The Local Labour Market

When it came to jobs attendees described a mixed picture across Belfast, in particular. Key concerns included:

• Recruitment Struggles: Sectors like construction, logistics, and healthcare face hiring difficulties, while public sector roles attract high volumes of applicants.
• Wage concerns: Salaries in Northern Ireland lag behind other UK regions, encouraging some skilled workers to move elsewhere for better opportunities.
• Graduate Insecurity: Short-term contracts and limited job prospects are common, with experience often valued more than qualifications.
• Impact of Technology: There were concerns that AI could replace entry-level jobs soon, making it even harder for people starting out in their careers.
• Retirement Worries: Rising costs are forcing some older individuals to delay retirement or return to full-time work.

Get Involved

The Citizens’ Panel is an excellent way for local voices to be heard on issues that matter most. If you’d like to take part in future sessions, you can sign up and help represent Northern Ireland’s perspective in national discussions. More info HERE.

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