Citizens Advice say a significant rise in the cost of living this year has been detrimental to families across Lincolnshire
The Mid Lincolnshire branch - covering Boston, Sleaford and North Kesteven - revealed to us that over half of their clients this month are families, with over a quarter in employment
We're hearing the increased cost of living is leaving a detrimental impact on families across Lincolnshire,
Citizens Advice in Mid Lincolnshire - covering Boston, Sleaford and North Kesteven - revealed to us that 84% of their calls this month have related to energy bills with more than half of their callers being families.
The number of people in debt with rent and council tax arrears was also a notable
Clare Staunton is a money advice case worker and says people are really struggling:
"Well, people are struggling to manage due to the increased cost of living. They are therefore trying to find out if they can claim anything additional to give some extra income. Also, with debt we are seeing more and more people presenting with negative budgets. Their income just does not cover essential bills or items.
"People are looking at ways to cut costs with utilities, and many are fearful to turn the heating on. But now that the coldest hit, there is little choice. This is causing intense anxiety.
"People are also using foodbanks because there's not enough money to pay for essential items. Again, due to the increased cost of living."
Clare added that it'll have a long term impact on those affected:
"A significant number of people are not coping, and this can deeply impact on their mental health and will wellbeing. Feeling low can make it very difficult to manage money, and the continued worrying, inevitably makes it worse.
"The significant increase in the cost of living has had a detrimental effect, more so this year, than last. But in the same way as last year, I would say that going into the New Year we're likely to see an increase in debt and we're also likely to see an increase in relationship issues, including divorce and separation. This may be due to the additional financial pressures of Christmas."
Citizens Advice is a national charity with a network of local charities, that offer confidential advice online, over the phone, and in person, for free.
They help millions of people every year. To find out where your nearest branch is go to the Citizens Advice Website here.
The charity can also be contacted online here.