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Regional news Article Money advice service launched in Cheshire West & Chester for those with debt worries11:48, Sep 24 2010
Ellesmere Port Pioneer
CHESHIRE West and Chester Council has launched a new Money Advice Service – designed to provide free and confidential advice to anyone with debt or money worries.
If you’ve seen a reduction in income or the bills are piling up, you’re being chased for payments or have been served court papers, had a visit from the bailiffs or you have exceeded your overdraft limit, there a now a place to turn for help.
Run by staff within the authority’s Housing Solutions Team, the Money Advice Service will offer one-to-one assistance with a range of problems from advising on your rights and options and identifying all the debt remedies available, to negotiating with creditors on your behalf and assisting with the completion of court forms.
Executive member for prosperity, Councillor Herbert Manley, said: “In the current economic climate some families are struggling to keep their finances in the black and this can cause stress and pressure, particularly if it is affecting their housing situation and they may be at risk of losing their home.
“If you do have money worries you need to get help as soon as possible. The longer you ignore debts for the worse the situation becomes.
“I’m pleased that this authority is now able to offer sound advice on how to deal with money worries and debt to those who may not know where to turn.”
The service can also help prepare a budget plan, which looks at what you can afford and where you can make savings, as well as checking if you are in receipt of all the benefits and financial support you are entitled to.
Staff can give you practical advice and assistance on how to contact those you owe money to like utility providers or mortgage lenders, how to prioritise your debts, and how to deal with less important debts.
If you have debts and are struggling to cope please contact the Money Advice service on 0151 3566348 or 01606 353520 or email housingsolutions@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk
Source: icCheshireOnline - Money advice service launched in Cheshire West & Chester for those with debt worries
