THE latest National Survey for Wales has revealed a shift to thrift as more people buy second-hand goods and reduce energy use in the face of the cost-of-living crisis.

The results of the survey, a random sample of over 11,000 people, were published today by the Welsh government.

They show a significant increase in the number of people minimising energy use at home, with 75 per cent citing cost as the main reason.

The number of people recycling and reusing goods also rose, with over half saying that they were cutting down on buying new items and 70 per cent either buying or being given second-hand items in the last 12 months.

Minister for Finance and Local Government Rebecca Evans said: “The national survey results provide an important insight into how people in Wales feel about different aspects of their lives.”

She explained that the results would be used to inform government thinking and actions as part of economic and social planning.

In the world of work, a third of people said that they work remotely, but 16 to 24-year-olds were less likely to do so.

On caring for others, 29 per cent said that they look after or give help or support to family members, friends, neighbours or others because of long-term physical or mental ill health or disability, or problems related to old age.

A third of respondents reported using a bus at least once a week, with 40 per cent saying they had used a bus service in the past year.