People in Moray have more outstanding debt than anywhere else in Scotland.
A national debt charity has published figures which reveal that the Moray residents who sought its help owe an average of £19,000.
The StepChange debt charity collated the figures from calls placed last year.
Local MSP Richard Lochhead said he was “alarmed” when charity bosses informed him of the situation.
He has now called on struggling individuals to seek help “as soon as possible.”
The politician said: “I was alarmed to learn when I met with StepChange in the Scottish Parliament that people in Moray had the highest level of outstanding debt of all local authority areas in Scotland.
“Sadly, it is no secret that too many families and households in Moray are struggling.
“There are huge pressures on people’s budgets, particularly at this time of the year, and it is important to highlight that there is free advice and help available out there.”
StepChange officer James Stewart said: “Debt can happen to anyone, and most people are not aware of how little it can take to fall into a spiral.
“It really can happen to anyone, so that’s why it’s important for the public to know that there are free debt advice organisations out there who can help.”
People looking for advice on dealing with debt can phone StepChange on 0800 138 1111.