The recession has altered views towards money and debt management, new figures reveal.

Findings from the Charities Aid Foundation show that more than two-fifths of Brits say money is more important to them now than before the economic downturn.

As well as this, more than three-quarters are thinking more about how they spend and changing their habits, with many going out less often, shopping in less expensive shops or not going on holiday.

The recession has also changed views towards helping others, with a third saying they are now more likely to help others in need, suggesting that debt management is not only about considering their own financial situation.

Last week, the Building Societies Association urged savers to consider more than just the headline interest rates when looking for somewhere to put their money.

It suggested consumers look for long-term competitive deals to avoid the need to switch saving accounts in the future.