Credit crunch pressure

The credit crunch is affecting us all.  For some families it means stricter spending, but for others it means trouble making payments or the potential loss of their business and livelihood.  There are a number of ways the council and council or government supported organisations can help you through the rough patch.

Help for you to keep your home

If your circumstances change, for example you work fewer hours, receive a cut in pay or face redundancy it can make it difficult to keep up with your rent or mortgage payments.

For help and advice on your mortgage or rented home, visit our housing section.

Facing difficulties with mortgage payments?

The government has recently launched a new website http://mortgagehelp.direct.gov.uk which provides comprehensive information on help available and an interactive tool for households to develop their personal ‘action plan’.

Local business and employment

We recognise that local businesses are suffering too.  We can provide you with information on the latest government initiatives and incentives for your business. Visit our support for businesses section.

Worried about facing redundancy? We have produced a booklet to give details of key sources of available advice on issues such as employment rights and money worries.

Have you been made redundant?  Job Centre Plus can help you brush up on your interview skills, hunt for a job or course of training, or apply for an apprenticeship scheme.

You might also consider self-employment.  Directgov list a number of organisations that can offer you advice in the early stages.

Apply for benefit or discounts

If you’re struggling to meet your rent or council tax payments, you may be eligible for housing or council tax benefit. 

Come along to one of our benefit advice surgeries for more information or help completing a claim form.

Council Tax - discounts, relief and exemptions.  Find out whether you qualify for a discount on your Council Tax.

Budgeting, finance and debt management advice

Directgov debt advice. If you're in debt and you are finding it hard to cope, it's important to deal with the problem straight away - the longer you ignore your debts, the worse the situation becomes.

Useful money, tax and benefits contacts from DirectGov.

National Debtline.  For a free self-help pack on tackling debt  and information on working out a personal budget contact National Debtline on 0808 808 4000.

Money Advice Service - Budget calculator This link will take you to an external website... . A range of calculators to help you work out how much money you have available each month.

Real Help Now - information and news about the support that’s available to help people through the credit crunch, and where to go for help you need.

Debt Advice Foundation - a registered national debt advice charity offering free, impartial support and advice to anyone worried about debt.