We have written off the millionth pound of debt for our clients.
We are sad to say that Norfolk Citizens Advice advisors have helped clients right off £1,000,000 since April. That is equivalent to the previous two years of debt we helped to address and is endemic of the startling rise of debt as an issue in Norfolk.
The growing debt issue - a knock on effect of the rising cost of living crisis - will see yet more people with debt crises walk through our doors. Within the first seven working days of 2023 alone, we helped 280 people in crisis after falling into debt, and this trend shows a dangerous precedent for the rest of the calendar year.
We are beginning to see a rise in middle-income households as the poverty line starts to rise up the economic ladder. CEO Mark Hitchcock states:
“We are seeing lots of people who have never had to manage under such dire circumstances.”
“We are seeing debt lead people to regularly make life-threatening decisions, with people going without food, heating, washing, turning fridges off - key requirements for living.”
As more of the usually stable households are faced with maxed out credit cards and thousands of pounds worth of loans, the vulnerable groups are in even more danger of falling through the cracks. These are groups such as women, the elderly, those living on their own and people with disabilities or health issues.
Seek help if you need it
“Don’t isolate yourself, and find support before problems grow.” - CEO Mark Hitchcock
It is important that you ask for help when you need it. The National Citizens Advice website offers an extensive collection of free and regularly updated advice for whatever problems you may be facing. If you would rather speak to someone face-to-face you can find your local office and we can help you access support services and assistance from vouchers, bursaries and state benefits. Additionally, you can contact us using our our email form and through our General Advice Line 0800 144 88 48.
