More than half (53%) of UK adults expect their household financial situation to worsen in the next 12 months, revealing concerns about the financial outlook following the recent Budget, Mattioli Woods has stated.

New research by YouGov found that just 11% anticipate an improvement, while 26% are considering reducing household spending as a direct result of the Budget.

The wealth management firm said the research highlights that concerns extend beyond immediate household pressures to longer-term financial security. Just 25% feel confident they have, or will have, enough money to enjoy a good standard of living in retirement.

YouGov’s survey also found that confidence varies considerably by age. Less than a quarter (24%) of those aged 50 to 64 feel confident about their retirement finances, compared to 45% of those aged 65 and over.

Mattioli Woods said this suggests "significant uncertainty" among those approaching retirement.

Managing director of wealth at Mattioli Woods, Amit Joshi, concluded: "While the 2026 Autumn Budget may initially have appeared relatively uneventful, its potential implications for household finances and longer-term financial planning should not be underestimated. More than half of UK adults expect their financial situation to worsen over the next 12 months, with one in four already considering cutting household spending as a direct result.

"However, the findings also highlight a wider concern about financial security beyond the immediate impact of the Budget. With just one in four people confident they will have enough money to enjoy a good standard of living in retirement, it is clear that many are uncertain about what the future holds.

"Understanding how changes to the economic and tax landscape could affect individual circumstances is increasingly important. Taking a joined-up approach to financial planning can help people make informed decisions, make the most of their savings and investments, and feel better prepared for the future."

---