Volunteers needed as advice workload mounts up

10:24am Tuesday 7th October 2008

THE credit crunch is biting in the Hambleton area where levels of debt have doubled since last year.

In their efforts to cope with the deluge of inquiries, the local Citizens Advice Bureau urgently needs more voluntary advisers.

So many people are facing job losses and changes in their financial circumstances that debt has become the highest inquiry area, closely followed by benefits.

Between April and September this year more than £3m of debt was dealt with by the money advice worker, double that of the same period last year.

Because of the money problems the bureau has also seen many more clients facing relationship breakdown and house repossessions.

Deputy manager Helen Donnelly said: "Pressure on family life and increased poverty is very evident.

"Getting advice quickly is often crucial in helping prevent an emergency and it is vital people don't hide away from their problems."

The bureau operates from its offices at 277 High Street, Northallerton.

To arrange an informal chat about becoming a volunteer adviser contact Ms Donnelly on 01609-776551.