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ProblemsDebtIt is very easy and very common for anyone to get into debt. If you do have financial problems don't just ignore it and hope it will go away - it won't. The worst thing you can do is to ignore letters asking for money as sooner or later you will be sent letters threatening you with legal action and this will only cause you more pressure and distress. You must get financial advice as soon as possible. Citizens Advice Bureau will help with financial matters and will often write letters on your behalf to companies asking for money. The National Debtline produces an excellent free booklet which gives advice on all kinds of debt including mortgage and rent arrears and what to do if you are threatened with repossession. It is essential to pay priority debts first - gas, electric, water, mortgage, rent etc. These must come before paying off credit cards or personal loans (except loans secured on property). The booklet from the National Debtline informs you of your rights. Most credit card/loan companies etc. assume you don't know your rights and they demand money and make threats in many cases which they have no right to do. The booklet explains how to work out your money going out and money coming in - see what is left over, advises you how to work out what is left to give to people you owe money to once you have taken out your priority debts. Don't offer to pay more than you can afford to pay. Keep copies of any letters you send to anyone you owe money to. If you cannot make the full minimum payment offer to pay something even if it is only a token payment. Look at ways you may be able to cut down on your spending. Charity shops are now very fashionable places to get your clothes and other items so don't discount them. Have a think about if there are any ways you can make extra money e.g. you may have a lot of stuff in your house you don't want or use so maybe think about having a boot sale, if you are talented and artistic and creative - what about selling your items at craft fares, charity fun days etc. Try not to let financial difficulties come between you and your partner if you are in a relationship, try not to talk about money problems constantly - set aside a certain time each week to talk about money problems and then let it go. Try and work out what to do together - it is no good blaming each other - focus on the solution to the problem. Get advice and don't ignore the problem - sort things out as soon as you can. Some agencies who provide information and advice
Useful websites
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