Residents in Newham have more problem debt than adults living anywhere else in the country, a survey has revealed.
Research by the Money Advice Service and data specialists CACI found the borough is the UK’s most over-indebted local authority with 22.7 per cent of the population affected.
Over-indebted individuals are defined as those who find meeting monthly bills a heavy burden and/or those who have missed at least three bill payments in a six-month period.
One in six people nationally have financial worries, equivalent to 8.3 million people.
Sheila Wheeler, director of debt at the Money Advice Service said: “Debt is a complex challenge and one that needs a collaborative approach if we are to successfully address it.”
The NGO (non-governmental organisation) plans to tackle the issue with a new strategy including identifying and targeting priority groups who have problem debts.
Have you been affected by debt? Have your say, take our poll.
For advice and support, visit citizensadvice.org.uk
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