Of the total approaches made to it in the period 1 January to 25 October, however, Deco has been able to help in just 2,001 cases, however, in part because some families came to it too late, in some cases for legal reasons, the group explained.

The 2,001 figure is up 16 on the equivalent at this time last year.

The most common cause for families to seek help from Deco this year is once more unemployment, which was cited in 30% of cases.

Worsening job conditions accounted for just over 23 of requests, followed by debt collection/seizure of assets or income, divorce/separation and illness/disability, at 10% each.

Portugal's unemployment rate in September fell to 8.6% - its lowest level in almost nine years, as the economy continued to grow strongly.

However, both private and public indebtedness remain a major problem for the country.