Debt-stricken calls surge – but here’s how to cope

Helpline calls from people worried about debt have surged in January as energy bills rise and credit payments for Christmas spending are due.

National Debtline received 57% more calls in the first two weeks of January compared with the same period last year. The first Monday of the new year was its “busiest ever”, according to the Money Advice Trust, which runs the line.

Concerned callers were often behind with energy and water bills and many owed money to family and friends, the charity said.

But, as many people vow to tackle unmanageable debts this year, some have taken to social media to document their journeys to becoming…