Recent research has suggested that, British couples, who are worried about their financial future, given the current economic conditions, may want to explore different possibilities this year to keep the on top of their finances.

According to new research from the credit reference agency, Callcredit, around 20 per cent of couples have stated that they believe, if a partner were to lose their job, it would be impossible to survive longer than a month.

The couples were encouraged to consider consolidating their debt, or taking out a secured loan.

Callcredit also found that 26 per cent of couples have no savings whatsoever, although the age group that was found to be the most likely to be able to last indefinitely, should one half of a couple become unemployed, were those over the age of 55.

Owen Roberts, head of the company's website callcreditcheck.com, stated that 2009 could be "very difficult" for a lot of couples.

He added that: "Arguments over money can cause real problems in a relationship.” He then went on to suggest that people try not to overspend on payday and ensure there are realistic funds to pay for whatever it being purchased.