The New Year kicked off with a resolution for more than seven million Brits, with nearly half pledging to improve their financial situation.

Research carried out by IFA Promotions, an organisation which promotes the benefits of independent financial advice, showed 53% were concentrating on savings, while 55% were looking at budgeting. In addition, 1.5 million people (23%) resolved to get on the property ladder in 2006, according to the poll.

Karen Barrett, marketing director at IFA Promotion, said: “It is very encouraging to see so many people starting the year with resolutions – especially financial. However, it can be easy to let these good intentions fall by the wayside. An IFA could encourage you to persevere with your resolutions and improve your finances.”