As the Isle of Man gears up for its general election, the cost of living is on everyone's mind - shoppers, shopkeepers, and even the charities picking up the pieces. The economy is the talk of the town, or rather, the talk of the island, with residents and businesses alike feeling the pinch.

In Ramsey, independent shops report that custom is down and running costs are up, while the island's foodbank says demand has doubled in just two years. The Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce, ever the bearer of cheerful tidings, warns of "a very hard five years" ahead, citing a shrinking tax base and the recent departure of many high-earning jobs. Candidates are being urged to explain their funding plans, support for businesses, and how they'll ease the pressure on working families - basically, the usual pre-election homework.

Douglas residents are feeling it too. Sharon Cox says life is "not affordable.. especially for older people and vulnerable people," noting that prices rise "not just by pennies," but by "25 or 30 pence" each time she shops. Mum-of-one Caitlin Gibson, living with her mum, struggles to save while caring for her daughter: "I can't really afford to move out. I can't afford to save anything, so everything I earn, which is very little in the first place, is going on my baby." Andrew Cairns points to fuel and energy costs having "a massive impact," with petrol, electric, and gas all climbing - and you only need to visit a shop a month apart to see the difference. He's thinking about it ahead of the election, noting there's "a lot we can do to cut down our costs."

Businesses describe the last few years as some of the hardest they've faced. Tania Dolores, of Tania Dolores Shoes and Accessories, says, "Every day is a struggle. We are not making what we used to make." Her takings are "exactly the same amount of money as ten years ago," but bills are "much higher." Amy Salter, from the Brunch cafe, says supply and energy costs have changed how the family business operates - when it opened three years ago, things were "a lot easier than it is now." Linda Murphy, from Oma Sustainable Living, notes footfall dropped sharply after government services were removed from the Post Office earlier this year. She wants "somebody who understands and is looking out for small businesses, somebody who understands the value of the community, the high street and what it benefits."

The Isle of Man Foodbank chairman David Gawne says the charity has become "something of a barometer" for economic pressures. "Two years ago, we were giving out 200 parcels a month. We're now giving out 400 parcels a month and we're pushing that boundary now," he reveals. A staggering 80% of those supported are working full time but "not earning enough now to be able to support themselves or support their family." Many are "just one payday away from relying on the food bank… that is a reality for a lot of people." He calls for the next administration to prioritise the economy - because clearly, it's not a priority now.

The Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce echoes the sentiment, warning of "a very hard five years" ahead. After decades of growth, government statistics show the economy declined by 7.4% in the two years to March 2024. In the last year, a thousand jobs were lost in the export sector, which includes financial, insurance, and manufacturing. The Chamber's representative describes the figures as "incredibly concerning," with the true impact of artificial intelligence on the workplace yet to be quantified - because if there's one thing we need, it's more uncertainty.

She calls for an election focus on national issues rather than local ones, saying, "What we are voting for in September is our national government… how we are going to grow the Isle of Man economy and set us apart on an international stage." With 82 candidates contesting the House of Keys election, there's no shortage of people willing to take on this mess. Housing is also cited as a 'huge priority', and wind farm plans are influencing voters - because nothing says 'election' like a good old-fashioned energy debate.

So, as the Isle of Man heads to the polls, the message is clear: the cost of living is the issue, and whoever wins will need more than just good intentions to fix it. But hey, at least the foodbank is well-stocked - for now.