UK credit‑card debt spikes as millions face repayment strain and health‑related loans

New research shows that 15% of UK adults – more than 8 million people – consider credit‑card repayments a very or fairly large monthly burden. One in ten have used a credit card to pay essential household bills, and about 5% are trapped in persistent credit‑card debt, having paid more in interest and fees than the original balance over the past 18 months. Credit‑card defaults have risen to their highest level since 2009, prompting the StepChange Debt Charity to call for stronger affordability checks, clearer FCA rules and higher minimum repayments to protect vulnerable borrowers.

Separately, the Exeter’s Consumer Health and Finance Tracker finds almost one in five UK adults have turned to credit cards or personal loans to fund private healthcare, with 13% of 25‑34‑year‑olds taking out a loan for treatment. Men are more likely than women to borrow for health costs, and financial stress is linked to poorer mental health. The findings highlight the growing overlap of health expenses and consumer debt, urging policymakers to consider tighter credit regulation and better support for those facing health‑related financial pressure.