Oldhamers have "third highest level of debt in England"

Date published: 25 May 2021


People in Oldham have one of the highest levels of personal debt in the country.

That's according to a new UK-wide survey by debt software company Aryza.

With an average debt level of £17,858, Oldham has been found to have the third highest level of debt in England.

Drawing on a dataset of nearly 50,000 UK consumers currently struggling with their personal finances, the report found that Cleveland in Yorkshire has the highest level of average personal debt in England, standing at £18,547. Oldham has ranked third with an average debt level of £17,858.

The same study found the average debt level across the UK to be £15,924.

Currently, men across the UK have an average debt of £17,323 and women have an average debt of £14,712.

Those aged 60 - 69 have the highest level of average debt per person across the UK, standing at £21,975, closely followed by the over 70s, who have an average debt level of £20,785.

Martin Prigent, Aryza UK, said: "It goes without saying that the UK is facing its most difficult time in decades, and many are struggling to manage their finances for the first time in their life.

"While many have been able to take advantage of the Government’s support schemes, such as the job retention scheme, payment breaks or mortgage holidays, as these initiatives come to an end we may see debt levels rise.

"This UK wide report is the first in a series of regular reports, designed to provide updates on the state of the nation’s finances and ensure the industry is taking action to support consumers.”

The full report can be downloaded here.


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