Brits will ask for up to £1,500 from family or friends when needing to borrow money | Personal Finance | Finance

And borrowers have been loaned a total of £3,400 from their nearest and dearest in the last five years – to fund big life milestones such as weddings, and also to cover everyday purchases like buying a coffee or lunch.

But although it’s become part of everyday life, 30 percent found it an awkward experience, and nearly half (45 percent) ended up regretting it.

The research, commissioned by Shawbrook Bank Personal Loans, also found a third of women (33 percent) typically feel uncomfortable asking to borrow money, compared to a quarter (24 percent) of men.

And over three-quarters (77 percent) even choose to avoid the topic entirely, unless in the case of an emergency.

Sally Conway, head of consumer Communications at Shawbrook Bank, said: “We’re a nation of borrowers, and for many this could mean borrowing from loved ones to help fund our big life moments, as well as the little things we need.

“But borrowing money is not a decision to be taken lightly and, even if it’s from friends or family, you need to have clear terms agreed from the outset or things could get tricky.

“Talking it through and having things in writing – including how much is borrowed, repayments and timelines – can help to avoid any unnecessary awkwardness later down the line.

“This is a necessity when borrowing from a bank, and the same principles should be applied to any form of borrowing.”

The research also found more than half of adults have previously turned to a financial lender rather than seeking help from family and friends.

This is due to the lack of awkwardness (45 percent), not compromising a relationship (45 percent), and it being an “official route” (37 percent).

The average adult has borrowed an estimated £8,000 in unsecured credit in the last five years.

And the typical adult would be comfortable seeking a sum of £11,000 from their bank in the future.

Covering the cost of a car was the top reason to consider applying for a loan, while more than a third (34 percent) would finance home improvements with help from a lender.

But the survey, conducted via OnePoll, found many don’t do their homework when it comes to borrowing – as only 29 percent would spend time researching before making a decision.

Just under half (44 percent) would take the time to understand the APR, while only 41 percent would work out a budget before committing to the loan.

Sally Conway added: “Our research has found that, alarmingly, even when borrowing from financial institutions, not everyone is crystal clear on what they are signing up for.

“Financial lenders will always carry out certain checks on affordability when you borrow money, and will set terms and conditions before lending money. It’s really important to review these in detail and make sure you understand them.

“At Shawbrook, we want to help our customers better understand the ins and outs of borrowing.

“Knowledge is power, and it’s important consumers know what they’re signing up to right from the start – which is why we offer a range of guides and tools to help people navigate the world of borrowing better.

“We believe in being transparent and fair with everyone by providing guaranteed personalised rates on our personal loans, with no impact on your credit score when you apply for a quote.

“It’s really important, no matter what you’re borrowing for or from who, to be clued up and do your research before you enter into any agreement, so that you can make an informed decision on what’s right for you.”

TOP REASONS TO BORROW CASH FROM FAMILY AND FRIENDS:

1. To cover unexpected costs, such as home or car repairs
2. To pay for household bills
3. To pay for smaller items such as coffee, lunch, bus fares etc.
4. To pay off an existing debt
5. To buy a home
6. To buy a new car
7. To finance home improvements
8. To cover private medical expenses
9. To cover the rising cost of living
10. To fund education, including attending university
11. To start a business
12. Moving expenses
13. To pay for a holiday of a lifetime
14. To get married
15. Childcare

TOP REASONS TO BORROW CASH FROM A FINANCIAL LENDER:

1. To get a new car
2. To finance home improvements
3. To buy a home
4. To cover unexpected costs, such as home or car repairs
5. To pay existing debt
6. To start a business
7. To cover private medical expenses
8. To pay for a holiday of a lifetime 
9. To fund education (including attending university)
10. To cover moving expenses
11. To cover the rising cost of living
12. To improve credit rating
13. To pay for household bills
14. To get married
15. To take sabbatical leave from work