An increasing number of consumers are looking for advice on debt management, a new study reveals.

According to research by the Consumer Credit Counselling Service (CCCS), 86,990 calls were received between January and March, a rise of 33 per cent from the same time last year as borrowers struggle to make repayments on personal loans and other forms of credit.

Head of research James Ketchell said: "Increased media attention on debt issues and increased advertising by IVA [individual voluntary arrangement] and commercial debt management firms has prompted many to take action on their debt situation earlier."

The rise in debt management problems was partially attributed to the higher cost of utility bills and increases to the base rate.

Last month, head of the Legal Services Research Centre Pascoe Pleasence told the Peterborough Evening Telegraph that further financial advice can help create a better attitude towards personal loan borrowing.

Interfinancial providing you with breaking debt management news.