Region paying dear for debt

P

eople in the north-east have some of the worst debt levels in the country, according to the latest figures, which is probably not surprising in the current downturn.

But are these worrying levels of household debt due to over-confidence in our financial resilience or a sign of people crumbling in difficult times?

It is easy to preach a debt-free message, but the reality is much different for many people, especially when they step on to a slippery slope which involves trying to borrow their way out of trouble.

The figures will encourage many to re-assess their financial situation and support calls for more debt aid for those struggling the most.