Calls to debt advisors increase in West Sussex
Citizens Advice says it's down to Christmas bills and a rise in the cost of living
Christmas spending and a rise in the cost of living have contributed to an increase in calls to debt advisors at Citizens Advice West Sussex.
The independent organisation says January is usually a busy time of year, as people's Christmas spending catches up with them.
The team is urging anyone struggling to call, saying they can help budget spending, maximise income and sign you up for their 'Breathing Space' scheme.
Sarah Anstey, a Money Advisor at Citizens Advice West Sussex, said: "January is a busy period for money and debt advice, normally with people who have perhaps overspent at Christmas. It is worse this year with people struggling to pay for their gas and electric.
"We can help you with income maximisation, so checking you're getting all the benefits that you're entitled to so you've got the most income coming in. We can also help with budgeting advice, so cutting down on expenditures.
"It (The Breathing Space scheme) gives you 60 days where you don't have to think about what those creditors are doing or what's happening with the debt you've got. No action can be taken and it gives you that head space to get some help, work out what you want to do and go back to them with a solution."
Citizens Advice West Sussex can be contacted on 0808 278 7969.