People on Different Incomes Share Their Budget Hopes

Ahead of this year's Budget, the BBC spoke to people with very different incomes about what changes they would like to see.

The people interviewed earn a wide range of money, from £4,062 a year up to £150,000 a year. Each person shared their own hopes and concerns about taxes and spending.

The Budget is the government's yearly plan for how much money it collects through tax, and how it spends that money on things like healthcare, education and welfare support.

One person living on a low income said they are trying their best but still find it difficult to manage. People in this situation often hope for more financial support or lower taxes on everyday costs.

At the other end of the scale, someone earning £150,000 a year also shared views on the Budget, though their concerns are likely to focus more on business taxes or investment rules rather than basic living costs.

This wide range of incomes shows how differently the Budget can affect people's lives. For someone with a very small income, even a small change in tax or benefits can make a big difference. For someone earning much more, the Budget's effect on business or investment may matter more.

Every year before the Budget, journalists often collect views from members of the public. This helps show how government decisions might affect ordinary people, not just politicians or experts.

The full details of this year's Budget have not yet been announced. People across the income scale are waiting to see how the government's decisions will affect their finances in the months ahead.