We all have financial commitments but some critical life events, such as a relationship breakdown, change in family commitments, illness, redundancy, a change in benefits or business problems may affect our ability to manage our finances. Whatever it is, it must dealt with quickly before the problem becomes a disaster.

Debts

It is important not to panic about debt problems but also not to ignore them - they won't go away. If you are worried about taking the first steps, there is free confidential advice available. The Bureau can help you to create a budget, decide on an appropriate strategy to deal with your debts, prepare court paperwork and assist in negotiating repayments. We can also help (during office hours).with emergencies such as threatened disconnections or action by bailiffs.

Before calling one of the telephone numbers listed below, first write down details of your income and essential expenditure then make a complete list of your debts and collect all the letters and other documents that refer to them. See the Citizens Advice Adviceguide's useful note about this: 'How to deal with your debts'

The National Debtline and The Money Advice Trust produce a comprehensive guide to 'Dealing with your Debts', which is available from The Citizens Advice Bureau. It may also be viewed here. The Debtline also produces a series of Factsheets here, describing various aspects of dealing with Debt and many other financial matters. The Citizens Advice Bureau offers help in interpreting and making use of this information.

A Money Advice Service is also available at the following Leicestershire locations: Blaby, Coalville, Hinckley, Lutterworth, Market Harborough and Melton Mowbray.