Which?’s Consumer Insight Tracker has revealed that 8.1% of mortgage holders missed payments for essential bills, such as housing and energy in the month to 8 March.

This is the third highest level Which? has recorded for mortgage holders since April 2020.

The Consumer Insight Tracker is an online poll conducted monthly by Yonder on behalf of Which?. It is weighted to be nationally representative with approximately 2,000 respondents per wave. 

Meanwhile, debt charity National Debtline’s own findings show that overall, 64% of callers to its debt line say every month is a struggle to make ends meet.

In addition, 63% of National Debtline callers surveyed are concerned they will be unable to pay a bill in the next six months.

The charity says Which?’s findings shine a spotlight on the pressure millions of households are under to cover essential costs, and warns more will struggle without further support.

David Cheadle, chief operating officer at National Debtline, said: “This high level of missed payments shows the impossible choices being faced by millions of households in this time of high costs.

“With both mortgage and rent payments up significantly, household finances are under increasing pressure. We can sadly expect many more people to fall into problem debt in the coming months.

“Anyone who is struggling can seek help from a free debt advice service like National Debtline. Our advisers can talk through your situation to find the best option for you.”