Extra debt help for homeowners

RESIDENTS facing repossession in Oldham are being given extra help to stay in their homes.

Oldham Citizens’ Advice Bureau (CAB) is launching a campaign to help people manage their debts.

The area is one of 56 repossession hotspots identified by the Government in November last year as being at greater risk due to having higher levels of unemployment and repossession court orders.

The bureau, based in Ascroft Court, will run two additional advice services where families can get free impartial advice and information on managing debt and arrears, and reducing the risk of losing their homes.

The events will take place on Saturday and March 20, from 9.30am to 12.30pm.

CAB’s across England and Wales saw a 42 per cent increase in inquiries about mortgages and secured loans arrears in the 12 months leading up to September, 2009.

Jonathan Yates, manager at Oldham Cab said: “Many people face money worries and don’t know where to turn for help.

“Oldham CAB has a number of experts offering free, confidential and impartial advice on a range of topics, particularly debt problems which are currently our number one issue.

“Anyone who is worried or concerned can either call in at one of our additional weekend services or any one of our regular access points.

“We also have a number of leaflets and advice sheets available if people would rather try to tackle the problem themselves.

“The worst thing people can do is bury their heads in the sand.”

The campaign is part of a wide range of extra support the Government is offering to struggling homeowners.

More information can be found at www.direct.gov.uk/mortgagehelp

For more information call the advice line on 0844-847 2638, on Mondays and Tuesdays bwrween 10.30am to 3.30pm.

Alternatively, visit www.oldhamcab.org.uk