OFT reminding public of debt counselling

Fri, 07 Feb 2020

The Office of Fair Trading is reminding residents of a free confidential Debt Counselling Service available.

 

It follows tax return deadlines and post-Christmas/New Year's blues, which the OFT said can be a period where managing money can be a struggle, and the months following Christmas can see many people faced with mounting debts.

 

Harry Brereton, Consumer Advisor and Debt Counsellor, said: ‘The OFT’s Debt Counselling Service can help you to see a way forward in paying your creditors and can assist in creating realistic budgets. We are not here to judge anyone, but only to help where we can. 

 

'Debt problems arise for any number of reasons and major life changes can happen when least expected. 

 

'Illness, bereavement or other changes in circumstances can have a real impact and people can easily feel overwhelmed if faced with money problems. We want to help you take control of your finances and get you back on your feet'.

 

Chairman of the OFT, Martyn Perkins MHK, said: ‘Anyone who finds themselves in financial difficulty should make use of our Debt Counselling Service, which is free to use.’

 

‘Over the years the service has helped a great many people see a way forward. Whilst it cannot take debt liabilities away, it has empowered many people to deal with their debts and find solutions. You should never be too embarrassed to approach the service. Don’t ignore the problem. Tackle it early. Our staff is not here to judge, but only to help.’

 

The Debt Counselling Service can be contacted through the following ways:

 

• online at https://www.gov.im/oft/money/
• by emailing debt@gov.im
• calling (01624) 686510

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