More than 215,000 households face eviction

That’s the equivalent of 4,140 households being threatened every week. And the homeless charity’s research reveals that Newham in east London as the area where people are most likely to lose their home, while Salford is the eviction and repossession-risk capital of the north.

Shelter says that despite the Government’s boasts about the beginnings of economic recovery, a growing number of families will still struggle financially in the future.

It warns that with most families already struggling month to month with their housing costs, and interest rates set to rise, many could soon be in danger.

Shelter’s free advice helpline is currently taking over 480 calls each day, and the charity advises hard-up people to get help as soon as possible to prevent arrears from spiralling out of control.

It also stresses the importance of preparing for future mortgage or rent rises after the Resolution Foundation warned this week that over 2.3 million householders could become “mortgage prisoners” when interest rates go up.

Liz Clare, helpline adviser for Shelter, said: “We’re hearing from more people who’ve reached crisis point and often already have court papers.”