Despite economic improvements, more people seek help with debt

saving two euros in a piggy bankA Dutch organisation which helps private individuals deal with their finances when they get into debt had 92,000 requests for help last year – up 3,000 on 2013.

The NVVK said the average debt owed by its clients was €38,500, a 2% increase on the previous year.

‘Despite the improvement in the economy, debt continues to grow,’ NVVK chairwoman Joke de Kock told the NRC. ‘At an average €38,500, this is more than the average annual income.’

Unemployment, cuts in income support and the rising cost of household bills are all contributing to the continuing growth in debt, De Kock said.

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