Demand for Debt Advice still at a record high

Demand for Debt Advice still at a record high

11th October 2009

The demand from the general public for assistance from the Citizens Advice ‘Dealing with Debt’ service is still at a record high and shows no sign of easing, despite indications that the worst of the recession may be over. The organisation is experiencing unprecedented demand for the free and confidential money advice service being offered by CAB across Northern Ireland. 

During the six month period from April to September 2009 the DETI-funded Dealing with Debt service handled over £12million of debt in Northern Ireland and helped over 1,000 new clients.

Scott Kennerley, Money Advice Project Manager, said:
“These figures show the extent of the debt problem in Northern Ireland and that it is not showing any sign of slowing down as we approach our busiest time of the year after the Christmas period.

The biggest areas of concern continue to be mortgage arrears and secured loans as well as credit cards and small business debts.  Reports from the media suggest that we are emerging from the recession but its effects are still having a damaging impact on the lives of many people across Northern Ireland.”