New survey: The majority of Swiss families lack money
For more than half of families in Switzerland, income is tight or there is not enough money. This was revealed by a survey of more than 2,000 families in all parts of the country. As a result, many are considering increasing their workload.
Where does the shoe pinch? Pro Familia, the Swiss umbrella organisation for family organisations, and the pension insurance company Pax want to find out from families in Switzerland every year. The latest survey results were published on Thursday. They clearly show that the shoe is on the other foot. And more so than a year ago.
For more than half of the families surveyed (52 per cent), income is only just enough or not enough at all. In the previous year, the figure was 47 per cent. Similarly, the proportion of families who are unable to save any money (30 per cent) has increased.
Less money, more work
Money issues such as health insurance premiums, rising prices and housing costs are the biggest concerns for families - and more so than in the previous year. However, other topics such as health, climate change and environmental protection have become less relevant. Concerns about energy supply and security are also no longer as great. The coronavirus pandemic is almost no longer a concern.
Source: Familienbarometer
Families are most likely to cut back on holidays, restaurant visits and leisure activities. More than in the previous year for these items too. And just under half of families (49 per cent) are considering increasing their workload. Philippe Gnaegi, Director of Pro Familia Switzerland, points out that this poses a challenge when it comes to childcare and caring for relatives. "Reconciling work and family life becomes more difficult if the right conditions are not in place."
Pessimistic view of the future
Exciting: Despite the financial pressure, the respondents are modest and optimistic. Four out of five (80 per cent) say they are satisfied with their family life. This is even slightly more than in the previous year (76 per cent). Unsurprisingly, satisfaction increases with higher income.
On the other hand, people are pessimistic about the future: 79 per cent of families expect their situation to deteriorate over the next three years.
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