City council offers free debt and consumer advice

As the New Year starts many people are realising that they have overspent on credit and debit cards, and combined with the credit crunch it can be a concerning and difficult time.

For others faulty goods bought over the festive period can also prove to be a worry. But thanks to Manchester City Council, free help and advice is at hand.

Every week Manchester Advice, run by the City Council receives hundreds of calls from people who are experiencing problems with debt. Difficult economic times have seen these calls increase by 40% in recent months. (Comparing January /February 08 with October / November 08.)

Manchester Advice offer free consumer guidance as well as debt information on what can be done to ease the situation. If you are experiencing problems Manchester Advice can help by explaining and advising how you can maximise your income - (you may be entitled to benefits, tax credits or allowances. Plan your budget and pay the most important things first - like rent, council tax, mortgages, secured loans, gas, electricity and water bills), and understand your consumer rights and negotiate with traders.

Some key things to remember are:

• Contact your creditors and let them know if you are struggling - the sooner you do this, the more likely they can help.
• Be very careful about borrowing money to pay off other debts - you will probably end up paying more in interest.
• Look for low APR figures if you do borrow - this shows the cost of the credit. Borrowing £500 from a doorstep lender might cost over £160 in interest over six months. Manchester Credit Union can charge around £18 for the same loan. Speak to the credit union about becoming a member on 0161 231 5222.
• Do not pay for debt advice - there are plenty of free services available, and paying for advice will cost you money which could be reducing your debts.

The sooner you get advice the better, but it is never too late to sort out most debt problems.

Councillor Basil Curley, Executive Member for Adult Services at Manchester City Councilfor said: "It can be very worrying when suddenly you realise that you have overspent and combined with the credit crunch and rising prices that perhaps you can't make payments which are due - but the staff here can offer some excellent advice and help the situation become easier. It is never too late for Manchester Advice to be able to help you."

He added: "In addition the staff can help you if you have perhaps received or bought a gift which is faulty, giving you up-to-date consumer advice."

Anyone wanting advice can phone 0161 234 5678 or visit the Advice Centre on the Ground Floor of the Town Hall Extension.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Fiona Smith, tel: 0161 234 3237