Western Daily Press (Saturday)
SORT OUT MONEY PROBLEMS – NOW
If you’re struggling to make ends meet, don’t ignore things hoping they will go away – they won’t. Get help immediately.
The longer you leave things the deeper in debt you will end up – and you will have fewer options to sort things out.
Debt can ruin lives when it is left to spiral out of control. Make sure you tackle it now.
Don’t struggle and worry alone. There is free help available.
No one will judge you – these experts only want to help you get back on top of your finances.
Contact your local Citizens Advice, call the National Debtline 0808 808 4000 or contact StepChange Debt Charity on 0800 138 1111/via stepchange.org.
Don’t be tempted to take out more credit to pay off debt. Stop spending and go through your finances so you know exactly where you stand.
Prioritise paying essential bills. Don’t pay the person who is shouting the loudest.
Rent/mortgage, energy and council tax should be the first on your payment list as these can have serious consequences if you don’t pay them and build up arrears.
Credit cards, loans and other unsecured debt can be dealt with separately.
Make sure you are getting all the financial help you are entitled to. One of the debt charities above can help you go through your individual circumstances to see if there is any financial help you are missing out on.
There is a benefits calculator at turn2us.org.uk where you can check what you may be entitled to.