Debt problems rising, figures show

A growing number of people are facing the need for debt help as a result of the recession, figures have shown.

Citizens Advice noted that difficulties in paying fuel bills are among the most common problems, with rent arrears also on the increase.

Chief executive David Harker suggested figures regarding enquiries to the organisation give a “stark insight” into the pressure being placed on household finances in the recession.

“We may officially be in recovery, but for many people the damage done by the economic downturn is long-lasting and far from over,” he said, noting that rising energy prices are affecting budgets.

The statistics indicated that money worries were up by 20 per cent in the final three months of last year, compared to the same period in 2008.

Earlier this week, Confused.com warned that consumers could face an increase in gas and electricity costs, as a number of major fixed-rate tariffs are coming to an end.

By Andy Mackay