Experts and families express concern over government advice to stock up on essentials

The UK government has advised households to prepare for emergencies by having three days' worth of bottled water and tinned food, according to BBC Business.

Wes Streeting recently suggested people should have essentials like water, tinned goods, baby food, torches, and phone chargers ready in case of crises such as war or natural disasters, BBC reported.

However, some low-income families and experts have expressed concern that this advice may be unrealistic and insensitive. A single mother relying on Universal Credit and disability allowance said following the guidance would force her to sacrifice her childcare budget.

A professor cited by BBC described the guidance as potentially 'tone deaf' or even insulting to households facing poverty, highlighting the financial challenges of stockpiling supplies.

The UK government responded by saying people do not need to purchase all recommended items at once, aiming to alleviate concerns about affordability.