Debt Consolidation - to consolidate or not to consolidate?

I have been looking into various debt solutions recently (for a family member, not for myself). I didn't realise there were so many! Typing 'Debt Solutions' into Google returns what is almost like a supermarket isle full of different products! Debt Consolidation. Debt Management. IVAs. Remortgages. Trust Deeds... the list goes on.

And with each of those products comes a range of different brands each offering that respective product. Some are cheap like the supermarkets own-brands, some are more expensive. Yet like a supermarket own-brand, does the price reflect the quality? Hmmm...

Anyway, after much deliberation, debt consolidation seems to be the one jumping out, saying "Pick Me!". It doesn't seem as drastic as some of the other options - just another loan, really. I am thinking of suggesting this to my relative, as they are not in any SERIOUS debt - I think they could just do with a few extra quid at the end of the month.

Before I do, I am putting this out to you, my readers. What do you think? Is debt consolidation a wise choice for someone who can meet their debt repayments. They just want to consolidate (pardon the pun) them into one easier to manage loan. They are certainly a far cry away from bankruptcy!

I found the most convincing information about debt consolidation here at DebtAdvisersDirect.co.uk. Have a look yourselves, and be sure to check out the blog too.

I'll wait a week for your responses & then it's either debt consolidation or... well, I don't know yet!

Thanks in advance :)