Retailers may be encouraged to make better use of booklet labels containing vouchers in order to help consumers who may be struggling with living costs.

A new poll by moneysupermarket.com found that 22 per cent of Britons can no longer make ends meet, while 30 per cent said they would be in the same position if their living costs went up by £100 a month.

Four in ten people blamed petrol prices for their poor financial situation, while almost a quarter attributed it to the rising cost of food.

The poll found that weekly outgoings have shot up by £54 a month since last November, despite 61 per cent of respondents reporting having no salary increase in the last year.

More than three-quarters of Britons said they are now employing budgeting techniques, which may include using vouchers from promotional booklet labels, to help them cut costs.

Personal finance expert Clare Francis said: "2011 is set to be another tough year for many households, with finances continuing to be pushed to the max."

Last month, the Asda Income Tracker found the average UK family now has £10 less to spend a week than they did in March 2010.

Denny Bros Ltd, 12 May 11