UK public ‘worries about debt’

Over half the UK public is worried abut debt – with some considering taking out payday loans.

A study of bankruptcy attitudes by insolvency professionals body R3 has found 54 per cent are currently worried about how indebted they are.

The struggles some have to meet repayments are emphasised by the fact that 51 per cent are struggling to make it to payday each month.

People in the 35-44 age group find this hardest, with 68 per cent in difficulty, which may suggest those with dependent children are among the people hardest affected.

In their efforts to make ends meet, eight per cent would consider taking out a payday loan in the next six months, the highest level R3 has ever recorded.

R3 president Lee Manning advised: "Seeking professional advice as soon as possible is the best remedy for concerns over debt."

Figures for borrowing published by the Finance and Leasing Association this week revealed unsecured credit had risen by nine per cent over the year to May 2012.

By James Francis