The research showed that one in seven adults took out debt consolidation loans, with unsecured personal loans being the most popular choice.

The online price comparison site stated that the average consolidation loan reached more than GBP13,000, providing more evidence of the UK personal debt crisis, as borrowers struggle to control their finances.

MoneyExpert.com also found that, while unsecured personal loans are the most popular choice for consolidating debts, many consumers increase the debt on their mortgages or take out secured loans against their property with the risk that if they default they could lose their homes.

The research indicated that Yorkshire had the highest amount of debt being consolidated at GBP16,065, while East Anglia saw average loans being taken out of GBP15,642, and Scotland GBP14,439.

Those using standard credit cards to help consolidate their debts are most likely to face the highest bills, with an average standard credit card rate around 15.9%, while unsecured loans offer one of the lowest rates.