Supporting Debt Awareness Week 2023

20/03/2023

We are backing Debt Awareness Week 20-26 March and reminding customers that if you are worried about managing money, tackling debt, or paying your rent and charges, we are here for you.

We know that cost of living rises can have an impact on your finances and if you need a hand managing this, we are here to offer advice and support. Our specialist teams can help you get on top of what you owe and make the money you have go further.

Get in touch for personalised help with:

Maximising your income with access to affordable food, debt reduction advice, checks on the benefits you are entitled to, energy saving information plus more tailored help if you need it.
Assistance to pay your rent and charges with affordable payment plans and help to apply for additional support.
Advice to find a job or move your career forward if you are in work.
Signposting you to other local organisations to make sure you get all the help you need.

Lorraine Black, our Head of Community Services said: “We know that debt can be scary and confusing to deal with, but help is available.

“Over the last year our teams have provided money management advice to hundreds of customers every month, helping them take back control and turn their lives around.

“Those who have been supported by our Community Impact team have seen their disposable income increase by an average of £299 per person and we have helped reduce individual debts by an average of over £700 per person.

“Our Income Collection team also works with customers who are worried about their ability to pay their rent and charges, to help stop any debts from escalating.

“If you are struggling with debt and would like advice or assistance, do get in touch with us so we can help.”

Stop loan sharks

We are also taking this opportunity to highlight the dangers of using loan sharks to borrow money. They charge extortionate interest rates and often intimidate and trap their victims in a cycle of fear and violence.

Tell-tale signs of illegal money lending that you should be aware of include cash loans without paperwork, use of benefit or bank cards as security, and threatening behaviour to get money.

If you do need to borrow money, Credit Unions are recommended as a safe option. To find out about Oldham Credit Union’s ethical financial products visit www.oldhamcreditunion.co.uk.

More sources of debt and money management advice: