The Consumer Council has highlighted the ongoing struggles faced by families in Northern Ireland, showcasing findings from its quarterly Household Expenditure Tracker at an event held at Parliament Buildings, Stormont.

The latest results reveal that the lowest earning households have experienced their first decline in discretionary income since 2022.

The Tracker, which measures the financial wellbeing of Northern Ireland households, covers the period of April to June 2025. It found that discretionary income for the lowest earning households fell by £2.59 per week over the last quarter.

Noyona Chundur, Chief Executive for the Consumer Council, stated: "Our latest tracker findings for the period of April to June 2025, reveal that the lowest earning households saw a decline in discretionary income of £2.59 per week over the last quarter for the first time since 2022. These households now have just over £52 per week on average after spending on basics."

The report found that the financial position of the most vulnerable households remains precarious, demonstrating that consumers have not yet recovered their financial resilience.

Key data from the report includes:

• Discretionary income for the lowest earning households remains 19% lower than the peak seen in early 2021. • Food costs continue to represent the highest proportion of essential spending for these families, accounting for 24% of their basic expenditure—the highest level since the Council began monitoring these figures.

• Food, rent, energy, and transportation combined comprise 46% of the basic spending of the lowest earning Northern Ireland households.

• The highest earning households in Northern Ireland have, on average, nearly 14 times as much discretionary income as the lowest earning households.

• Overall, Northern Ireland average households have 47% less discretionary income compared to UK average households.

Ms Chundur noted that the limited discretionary income means the most vulnerable households have the least ability to absorb even a small rise in basic costs.

The event was closed by Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald, who acknowledged the findings. "The latest results show that although the economy is growing, many families across the north are struggling with the cost of living crisis," she said. "Inflation has seen the cost of essentials continuing to put extreme pressure on many families, especially low income households." The Minister committed to building an inclusive economy so that everyone shares in the benefits of growth.

The Consumer Council encouraged those struggling with bills and costs to use its money-saving tools online or contact its dedicated consumer support team on 0800 121 6022.