People with money worries are being urged to come to us for help following a survey which revealed more than half of UK adults are struggling with their finances.
The Money Advice Service survey published today found that 52% of the 5,000 people questioned said they were finding it difficult to keep up with bills and debt repayments − compared to 35% in a similar study carried out in 2006.
It revealed that people are increasingly worried about making their money last until next payday, can't afford to put money aside and are not able to deal with unexpected bills or financial emergencies.
To help residents deal with their concerns our welfare benefits information and advice team is on hand to offer a range of services including free benefits checks.
Trained staff can advise people about welfare benefits and tax credits and put them in touch with a wide range of organisations which can help with issues like housing, tax and loans.
Our Deputy Cabinet Member for Council Services Councillor John Owen said:
The results of this survey are a huge concern and we want local people to know that we offer a free welfare benefits support service with trained and friendly staff to help them deal with any financial worries they may have.
"Thousands of people in Derbyshire may be missing out on benefits that are rightfully theirs and our team can carry out a free check to make sure they're getting all the money they're entitled too as well as offering lots of other useful financial advice.
"There's no need for anyone to suffer in silence and I would urge people to call our service for support as a first resort rather than leaving it until they feel they can't cope."
Our benefits helpline is open Monday to Friday from 11am to 4.30pm on 0845 120 2985 or 01629 531535 or email welfarebenefits@derbyshire.gov.uk
Advice about managing money and debts, budget planning, loans and credit is available on our website atwww.derbyshire.gov.uk/welfarerights (opens in a new window)
