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A local charity has urged islanders not to delay in asking for help with managing debt as the cost of living continues to rise.
Citizens Advice Guernsey said it was worried people will struggle to stay on top of their finances this winter, when the “full impact” of inflation is seen.
Charity CEO, Kerry Ciotti, commented: “It’s no secret that the cost of living is rising rapidly but the current combination of long days and warm summer weather suggests that the full impact has yet to hit the Bailiwick.
Pictured: Money Adviser, John Stuart, was concerned islanders will "kick the can down the road" over debt problems.
Mrs Ciotti continued: “We know that some islanders are already struggling to manage their finances but the prospect of having to switch on our heating and lighting this winter, together with rising mortgage interest rates, means that things are set to become more challenging.”
Citizens Advice Guernsey handles an average of 10,000 enquiries each year, helping around eight percent of islanders with matters such as housing, debt and employment, as well as consumer, legal and family affairs.
Pictured: Citizen's Advice Guernsey CEO, Kerry Ciotti.
Money Adviser, John Stuart, said: “We’re concerned that some people may simply be kicking the can down the road by opting to re-write and extend their existing loans, rather than seeking help to deal with their debts right now.”
Mrs Ciotti said the charity currently helps clients to manage debts totalling around £3m each year.
“Our money advice service is free, friendly and completely confidential. Our trained money advisers are non-judgemental and fully focussed on how to help a client, rather than how their problems arose, and nothing is ever done without their agreement,” she said.
“Booking that first appointment with a money adviser is the key step towards taking control of their debt. The earlier you do it, the quicker we can help so please don’t suffer in silence.”
Citizens Advice Guernsey is located in Bridge Avenue, just off The Bridge, at St Sampson.
To book an appointment call 242266.
More information is available HERE
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