A detailed personal budget could help many people plan their way out of debt, according to a national charity.

People concerned with rising debt levels could take a step towards regaining control of their spending habits by drawing up a budget plan that provides detailed information on all their financial activities.

A spokesman for National Debtline, a charity that provides free telephone advice to those with money worries, said: "The first stage is to do a personal budget listing your income and all essential outgoings to keep the roof over your head."

The plan should include any essential monthly payments such as mortgage, rent, fuel, council tax, water, phone, housekeeping, and travel, as well as any incomings from wages or benefits.

This information will then allow specialised advisors to assess where cutbacks can be paid or if alternative forms of lending are needed to help reduce overall debt levels.