Get advice, not money misery

Published: 9:29 AM July 2, 2008 Updated: 2:45 AM February 23, 2021

IT is predicted that the cost of gas and electricity is expected to rise by 40 per cent by the end of the year. This comes on top of the hike in mortgage interest rates, the increase in petrol prices and the rising cost of food. While it s depressing news

IT is predicted that the cost of gas and electricity is expected to rise by 40 per cent by the end of the year. This comes on top of the hike in mortgage interest rates, the increase in petrol prices and the rising cost of food.

While it's depressing news for everyone, for people whose finances are already stretched to the limit these rises could mean the start of real financial difficulties.

If you think you are going find it hard to make ends meet, now is the time to take advice rather than wait for the bills to mount up.

If you are on a low income, it's important to make sure you're claiming all the welfare benefits and tax credits that you're entitled to, as well as making sure that your debts are managed properly and priority debts are met first.

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We at the Legal Services Commission provide a free confidential telephone helpline called Community Legal Advice - 0845 3454345 - which provides quality assured legal advice in welfare benefits and tax credits, debt, housing, employment and education. It is funded by legal aid and aimed at people on low incomes.

It is open from 9am to 6.30pm Monday to Friday, and advice is also available in any language.