I have just watched some idiot on TV who is up to her eyes in debt....?

I partly agree, but not everyone in debt is an idiot. If you are long term unemployed or sick it is almost impossible to live within your means. I have been living on �100 a week for two years, i still have to pay utility bills, buy food and clothes. Replacing broken appliances such as a cooker is impossible. When there are countless bills coming through the door and you need a new coat then it just cant be done, there are no luxuries yet i still sometimes get into debt because i have to decide whether to pay a bill or buy enough food. Some people waste money and buy items they dont need but many of us are struggling to make ends meet.