There has been a dramatic upsurge in debt worries among people in the Tonbridge area, according to new figures released today.

The data, produced by StepChange Debt Charity, revealed that in the first six months of this year, 902 residents sought debt advice from the charity's helpline compared to 774 in the same period last year - an increase of 17%.

The figures point to a slight reprieve for household budgets, with those contacting the charity from the Tonbridge area an average of £37 per month better off than the same time last year.

However, the average Tonbridge resident had nothing left over after accounting for basic living costs like housing payments, energy bills and council tax each month.

In the first six months of the year, the people of Tonbridge who contacted the charity owed an average of £12,417 in unsecured debt including credit cards, personal loans and overdrafts.

“All too often, people face their debt burden alone, which can worsen the pressure and anxiety they are feeling" - Mike O'Connor...

The release of the findings comes as part of the charity’s 'Need to Sleep'campaign,which aims to encourage people to recognise the impact long-term sleeplessness has on their well-being and address the root cause by seeking help with their money problems.

A YouGov survey, conducted on behalf of the charity, found that over 850,000 people in the South East are being kept awake by money worries.

Mike O’Connor, chief executive of StepChange Debt Charity, said: “Many people are plagued with severe financial worries that can have a huge impact on their health, relationships and even their ability to simply get a good night’s sleep.

“All too often, people face their debt burden alone, which can worsen the pressure and anxiety they are feeling.

"We would encourage anyone who is struggling with debt to take that first crucial step and seek free, confidential advice from an organisation like StepChange Debt Charity.”