INCREASING numbers of people in Bolton are struggling with debt, according to figures released today.

Debt charity StepChange has revealed that the average Bolton resident owes £11,108 in unsecured debt — such as credit cards, personal loans and overdrafts.

The charity said more people in the borough were contacting its debt helpline as they struggle to meet their living costs.

The helpline was contacted by 1,169 people from the Bolton area postcode during 2014 — a 19 per cent rise from 2013.

They found that after covering household bills, residents had just £34 left to put towards their debts.

The figures come as part of StepChange’s Debt Awareness Week — 7 days, 7 ways campaign, aimed at helping people to start tackling their debt issues.

The Bishop of Bolton, the Right Rev Chris Edmondson, a member of Bolton’s Hoot Credit Union said he had a mixed reaction when hearing that more people were calling the helpline.

He said: “It's good that people are seeking help and advice in the face of a spiral of debt, but the increasing number of people struggling with this issue and the rising levels of debt I find disturbing."

He added: “The reasons that people get themselves into serious debt are varied and complex.

“A particular worry for me is that children are often the ones who become most at risk and to hear as I do of families having to choose between having food on the table or the heating on does not reflect well on us as a society.”

He said it was essential that people contact StepChange, Hoot or the Christians Against Poverty group for free support and advice.

Cllr Kate Lewis, responsible for the council’s anti-poverty strategy, added: “The ever-increasing cost of living means there are growing numbers of people in Bolton who are struggling to meet the cost of basics such as food and energy bills.

“I would urge anyone struggling with debt to contact Bolton's Money Skills team on 01204 332916.”

For more information on debt advice visit stepchange.org