A survey by the Debt Advisory Centre found that 17% of adults – the equivalent of 8.5 million people across the country – are sacrificing time with their families to make extra cash.

Nearly one in 10 (8%) of people polled said they had returned to work instead of staying at home with their kids so they could ease the strain on their family’s finances.

The report also found that money worries were forcing Brits to abandon holiday plans.

Nearly two-fifths (38%) of respondents said they will not go away because they could not afford the break.

Young adults were the most likely to have abandoned their holiday plans due to money worries, with nearly half (43%) of 25-34 year olds admitting they have done so.

However, more than two-fifths (41%) of 35-54 year olds have also sacrificed a holiday to save money.

Other sacrifices made by struggling Brits included selling possessions (31%); cancelling insurance policies (11%); and downsizing to a cheaper property (6%).

Ian Williams of Debt Advisory Centre said: “Taking on a second job is one way of improving the household finances. However, it usually means people are working even longer hours and spending less time at home – which can add to the stress of being in debt in the first place.”