Debts 'embarass men'

They also need to see themselves as in control of their finances and able to deal with problems, according to the study.

Researhers at Centre for Research in Social Policy have found that men often felt it was a woman's role to seek help, while some lacked the self-confidence and social skills to access services, the 'Daily Express' reported.

Less than half of men in debt sought help. Many were not clear on what support was available while others were over-optimistic that a financial situation would improve.

The Money Advice Trust, which commissioned the study, said: "Men might require a little more of a push to seek help in dealing with debt and this research helps us to understand what might be behind this.

"We want to work to break down any barriers that exist to prevent men from obtaining advice."