Austerity Britain

So it's the last day of June and there is much talk about the effects of the economy on 'everyday people'. I've normally taken it with a pinch of salt, after all some are better off than others and the newspapers do like to exaggerate things. But I do actually believe that most people are beginning to feel the effects of lower income and higher food and fuel prices. For me, the signs are already here - we're short of bread, we're low on squash, we're out of kitchen towels, I've used the last of the eggs and I'm constantly reminded not to use too much washing-up liquid. These things may seem trivial but they are real signs that things are changing. I never used to worry about where the next loaf of bread was coming from and I would use three towels when one would do. I've run out of white paper in my printer so I have to use bright yellow and anything else spare provided it fits. Little things but sure signs that the money simply isn't there for the 'little extras'.
Things have never been quite like this before. I know for some, struggling to find the money for everyday essentials is normal. However, I think for many, this is a new phenomenon. I've a feeling though it's something we're all going to have to get used to.
The self-sufficient lifestyle is fast becoming more and more relevant. We pay £1 for six eggs at our local roadside fruit and veg stall. We eat a lot of eggs. I am particularly fond of them. So do we start keeping chickens? A lot of people in this area do and they are never short of eggs as a result, most choosing to sell the surplus. My tomato plants will in time provide enough fruit to keep us supplied each month. If successful, I intend to plant some more. I have ten plants currently.
To be honest, I would really like a polytunnel. This would enable me to grow all sorts of things but we don't really have the space unless I dig up one side of the garden. Then there's the cost and I don't think it's cheap.
Would be nice though...