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Conducted among 1012 adults, the survey was carried out in conjunction with six organisations including Citizens Advice to promote this year's Advice Week (6-12 October).

It showed although eight out of 10 people were more worried about their finances than this time last year, the coalition found those who felt that they had the greatest need for advice, were those who had the lowest awareness that free advice was available.

This was also the group on the lowest incomes, despite up to £9.9bn in means tested benefits going unclaimed last year.

To raise awareness, particularly among communities with greatest need, local agencies from the member organisations will be putting on community events during the week, helping clients to sort out money and other worries and urging people to access the benefits they are entitled to.

David Harker, chief executive of Citizens Advice, said: "Time and time again we see how seeking advice can have a massive impact on people's lives.

"Yet while recent increases in essential everyday expenses means many people are finding it hard to make ends meet, too many people are still missing out on money that is rightfully theirs, assuming they won't qualify or are too daunted by the process of making a claim."

Gordon Lishman, director general of Age Concern, said: "Rocketing living costs are leaving many people feeling increasingly anxious about the months ahead.

"With demand for advice set to increase, it is more important than ever that everyone can receive the support that they need."

Matthew Fleming Duffy, adviser for Bournemouth-based Abacus Financial, said he had been extremely busy with enquiries however clients were being hindered as business fell through due to turmoil in the markets.

He said: "People are keen to help themselves at the moment however the people coming to us are across the board and not a particular group. To be honest, everyone could do with independent financial advice at this time particularly those with any sort of adverse credit.

"As an adviser company, we only introduced fees about three months ago and we have only charged two people. Access to impartial advice is key at this time".