Sutton Council offers help with new year debt (From Streatham Guardian)

Sutton Council offers help with new year debt

10:30am Wednesday 11th January 2012 in Latest News By Sophia Sleigh, Reporter

Sutton Council offers help with new year debt

Sutton Council is urging people to tackle their Christmas debt hangovers.

Market research has shown that one in four people will have to deal with debts they ran up over the Christmas period Sutton Council and the Citizens Advice Bureau are offering advice on how to pay off Christmas debts.

Councillor Ruth Dombey, deputy leader of Sutton Council, advised people to tackle their bills as soon as possible and said joining a credit union was a good way to pay off debts and save at the same time.

She said: “At the start of a new year, next Christmas is the last thing on anyone’s mind. But if you start saving now, then by next December you should have a handy lump sum to help you get through next year’s festivities without needing to borrow.”

The CMS Credit Union is giving people the chance to save money while paying off their loans.

Credit unions are a safe, reliable way of saving money, taking out flexible, low- cost loans, and getting help and advice with debt.

The council is advising people to act fast and organise their debts before interest and penalty fees mount up.

People are advised to reread the small print on interest free credit agreements, because if minimum payments are missed then you could face higher charges.

People are warned to remember usual bills still need paying, otherwise utilities can be cut off and you could face a court summons.

Always prioritise and make sure the most pressing bills are paid first.

Finally, the council warned people against borrowing money from doorstep lenders or loan sharks, even though they might seem like an easy way to get cash quickly, the initial convenience may prove a false economy.

To find out more about the CMS Credit Union, call 020 8760 5711 or visit http://www.croydonsavers.co.uk/.

If you are already struggling with debt, you can contact the CAB on 020 8405 3552 for free impartial advice and help, or visit suttoncabx.org.uk/, or moneyadviceservice.org.uk.