Jump in payday loan problems

A leading debt advice charity says it is receiving calls for help from thousands more people who have payday loans.

Last year Stepchange, which used to be called the Consumer Credit Counselling Service, helped 36,413 people with payday loan debts, almost 20,000 more than in 2011.

The average payday loan debt reached £1,657, up from £1,267 the before.

The jump reflects the rapid growth of payday lending. It was the biggest source of complaints made to the charity, despite the fact that only 19 percent of its clients have payday loans. 

One borrower took out eight separate loans with one lender totalling £9,000, according to Stepchange.

"His mother then attempted to help by making payments of £50, the lender then proceeded to take £6,000 from her credit card without permission.

"Interest and charges continued to be added until the total debt reached £15,000 and the client was forced to declare bankruptcy."

The charity has launched a new payday loan page with help on payday loans.