Over two million people have used credit cards to pay their mortgage or rent, an increase of almost 50% in a year, according to new research from homeless charity Shelter.

The survey, conducted in August 2010 of 2202 people in Great Britain asked if respondents had borrowed money on their credit card to pay their rent or mortgage in the last 12 months. 6% of respondents said yes compared to just 4% in November 2009, suggesting a national figure of over two million people.

The charity is warning that many of these people could be starting the New Year with the threat of homelessness hanging over them.

Campbell Robb, chief executive of Shelter said: “This research brings into sharp focus how keeping a roof over their head has become a daily struggle for millions across the country.