The government has published a package of measures to help people struggling with their debts.

Debtors who cannot repay the funds they owe because of a sudden illness or redundancy will be given temporary relief for up to six months, under the plans.

Court orders setting out how debts should be paid will be reformed to help debtors pay off up to £15,000.

David Lammy, the constitutional affairs minister, said: "The steps will ensure that debtors are able to resolve their problems at the earliest possible stage and avoid, wherever possible, the cost and stress of court proceedings."