Average debts of British families have reached 9,314 pounds (14,423 U.S. dollars), up by 58 percent compared to 5,878 pounds in March 2011, a research report showed on Wednesday.

However, family debts have fallen back 11 percent since the start of the year, said the report on family finance issued by Aviva, the largest insurer in Britain.

Despite the recession, British families have seen their monthly incomes nudge ahead of inflation, which stood at 3.0 percent in April, as the typical monthly household income hit 2,150 pounds, a 4-percent increase over the past 12 months, the report said.

The report also showed that family savings pots are growing. The average amount held in savings by British families has risen slightly over the last year from 1,163 pounds to 1,228 pounds, an increase of 6 percent.

The average monthly expenditure of families has remained remarkably steady over the last 12 months and stands at 1,680 pounds in May 2012, about the same level of the same period of 2011.

However, the report said, the impact of rising inflation on the cost of essential goods and services means the typical shopping basket has become more expensive.

"Many British families have experienced tough times in recent years, so it's reassuring to see that people are getting to grips with their finances to weather the storm," said Richard Kelsall, head of savings for Aviva.

"Incomes have risen and debts are falling, which suggests that families are working hard to get on an even keel." (1 pound = 1.55 U.S. dollars)