Debt problems leave more sleeping on the sofa

Leading debt charity Consumer Credit Counselling Service (CCCS) has seen a rise in people calling its helpline who have no fixed abode.

CCCS says that these people are not living on the streets but usually sleeping on the sofa of a friend or family member. They find themselves in this situation because their debt problems have led to their eviction from rented accommodation or loss of their home due to repossession. The charity says that some have opted to rent out their property and stay with someone they know as a way of repaying their debts.

CCCS predicts that this trend will continue as the effects of the recent public sector and benefit changes are felt. CCCS has already counselled almost fifteen thousand (14,967) people with mortgage arrears and 6,820 people with rental arrears this year.

Laura Carver, Head of Helpline at CCCS says: "Loss of home is often the greatest fear for those struggling with debt. While only a small number of people with debt problems end up living on the streets, more are in effect rendered homeless because of rent or mortgage arrears.

"Sleeping on a friend's sofa is better than sleeping outside but it means that you still don't have a home.

"Anyone who finds themselves in this situation should seek help as there are a range of charities that can help them with their debt and accommodation issues."