The survey of more than 8,000 adults by insurer Aviva found that almost a third of families are providing financial support to their extended family and friends.
The amount each family gives to extended family members or friends is on average £442 a year.
The main reasons families cited for helping were a change in financial circumstances or to help friends and family meet one-off expenses.
In addition, families are also providing practical support to friends, with over a fifth helping with cooking, cleaning or babysitting to save them money.
However, one in seven families who provide support say they have had to make cut-backs in the last few years so they can continue to provide assistance.
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