If you are having a tough time keeping up with all your financial demands, maybe it's time to consider consolidating some of your debts using a secured loan.

According to moneysupermarket.com, more than three-quarters of Brits struggle to pay their utility bills; it's getting so bad that one in six people is left shivering as they can't afford to heat their home this winter.

Scott Byrom, utilities manager at moneysupermarket.com says: "Our research shows that people are now resorting to drastic measures by not turning on their heating at all because they can't afford it. It's clear to see that sky-high energy bills have been far beyond what people can afford."

Many of these people may not be able to pay their bills because they are over-stretched: maybe they have a few credit cards, a store card or two and even some personal loans. All these things can add up, especially with little chance of a pay increase or bonuses this year. That's why, if you are at home shivering because your gas bill is the final straw, you need to consider consolidation.

Using some of your home's equity you can pay off all those debts, leaving you with your mortgage and a secured loan to meet at the end of the month. This will give you space to save, room to breathe and some extra money to afford to turn up the radiators and start living a decent life again.

SOURCE: Moneysupermarket.com, 30/01/09

To keep up with the latest news and comments on current financial affairs please visit the Secured Loan Blog.

Over half of Britons feel financial problems are the single greatest issue facing the nation today, ahead of terrorism.

New research commissioned by AXA found that financial fear has risen by a fifth in just a few months.

Twelve months ago Britons felt the most pressing issues facing the nation were immigration and terrorism. But now, only a quarter of Britons ranked terrorism as the greatest problem facing the nation in 2008.

Also, personal safety and financial concerns have replaced environmental and security fears: AXA says financial fears are spreading out to general fears of safety.

But the most worrying statistic is that over the last 12 months just a quarter of Britons has sought financial advice, according to the insurer.

Steve Folkard of AXA says: "Financial concerns can easily monopolise every waking thought, at home and at work, causing serious psychological problems. Money worries have a big impact on personal and professional relationships and in extreme cases they could even result in divorce and slower career progression, as people take out these frustrations on those around them."

The simple cure to the fears is just what people have not sought – advice. Professional financial advice will allay worries and allow people to see that finances needn’t be feared.

To keep up with the latest news and comments on current financial affairs please visit the Secured Loan Blog.