People on low wages spend nearly half their working day earning enough to pay their rent, according to housing campaigners.

Shelter says paying for a one-bedroom home typically costs ‘rent-burdened Brits’ 44% of their income.

The group earns between £16,000 and £23,000 a year and includes hairdressers, security guards, factory workers, care home staff and fitness instructors.

Shelter is urging the next Government to build half a million of ‘living rent’ homes for ordinary working families over the next five years.

Director of communications, policy and campaigns Anne Baxendale said: ‘Colossal amounts of people’s time and money are being snatched away by eye-watering rents, which is a kick in the teeth when they are toiling so hard for their futures.

‘With such a huge chunk of their salaries spent on keeping a roof over their heads, many are forced to dip into savings or are getting into debt to cover other essentials and stay afloat.

‘The next government can make a real difference by building half a million new living rent homes for ordinary working people and families.

‘This will give them the chance for a far stronger future, instead of being left to scrape by.’