AN increasing number of Dudley residents are struggling with debt, new figures show.

Throughout last year, 1,203 locals who are barely able to meet their living costs contacted debt charity StepChange, compared to 922 in 2013.

The average person owed £10,984 in unsecured debt such as credit cards, personal loans and overdrafts and had only £54 left to put towards their debts after covering their essential household bills each month.

Figures have been released as part of the charity’s 7 Days, 7 Ways campaign to tie in with Debt Awareness Week.

The campaign is aimed at helping people to get control of their finances and start tackling their debt problems by taking steps such as creating a comprehensive household budget and opening all correspondence from creditors.

Mike O’Connor, the charity's chief executive said: "More and more families in the Dudley area are falling into debt and struggling to make ends meet.

"For those living on the edge of their financial means, taking control of the situation can seem a daunting, if not impossible, prospect, but taking positive steps towards tackling debt is crucial to getting back on your feet.

"We urge those who are worried about their debt problems to seek free confidential advice as soon as possible."

The charity can be contacted on 0800 138 1111.