News that the level of personal debt in Scotland has risen dramatically in the last year is being compounded by people failing to seek proper advice or even sharing financial worries with their partners, a new survey suggests.

According to the Guardian Financial Group the average credit card and loan debt facing Scots has risen to £6598, which is up nearly £1700 in only two months. This staggering rise, which is being exacerbated by the credit crunch and job losses is especially troubling, with 64% admitting they had no form of recognized payment plan.

Nearly 80% of respondents also said that they had not told their partner of the debt.

"Over half of adults in the UK with these debts report being actively worried. Some are losing sleep. And only 23 per cent have told their partner about their debts. We call on credit companies to be much more responsible lenders,” said Gary Forrest from Guardian Financial Group.