A large portion of the UK adult population has experienced credit problems..

The festive period is traditionally a time for giving, but for some people - especially those with a family to support - it can prove to be a difficult one to successfully manage. It is a season where we see more people, from all walks of life, seeking some form of supplementary borrowing, a factor which can generate additional monetary worries and financial stress, perhaps even leading to adverse circumstances down the line.

On a positive, more forums and sources of advice/information are readily available for people to discuss topics which may have previously been considered taboo and difficult to address. Although money matters and financial education are areas where there is certainly still room for plenty of improvement.

One recent lender issued a study to brokers on the world of adverse credit to encourage greater understanding and more open discussion around this subject matter. After all, this is an area which is not going away anytime soon. According to the lenders research, a large portion of the UK adult population has experienced some form of adverse credit. 15% of all participants surveyed reported that they had previously missed payments on credit commitments; had CCJs, defaults, secured or unsecured arrears registered on their credit file; or had entered a debt management plan (DMP) in the last three years.

The research outlined that adverse credit is most common amongst people who are the prime age to be homebuyers and remortgagers. The majority of people who experienced adverse credit in the last three years are said to be aged between 35-44 (43%). This compares to 33% who are aged between 18-34, and 23% who are 55+. It’s also important to point out that it’s not just the less affluent proportion of society who pick up adverse credit on their record. The report added that 61% of the adults who have experienced adverse credit in the last three years and are planning to buy a property in the next 12 months are associated with a higher income.

There are plenty of specialist lenders who will consider those who have had all types of credit issues, subject to terms and conditions, and rates are probably a lot lower than you would think.  As always, seek professional advice from the specialists.