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National campaign to tackle debt
16/11/2008
The National Debtline - 0808 808 4000 - is being promoted to help Scots facing debt problems in the current financial downturn.
Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said an awareness campaign, led by the Money Advice Trust and backed with £382,000 from the Scottish Government, would start this week.
Free, independent advice will focus on positive steps people can take to 'self diagnose' their financial situation and what can be done to improve it.
Ms Sturgeon said that it was important for people to be honest with themselves that they may need to do something about their debt, and then seek help sooner rather than later.
TV and online adverts will underpin the nationwide campaign, and for the first time, ATM machines across Scotland will carry adverts for the campaign.
Other key advice organisations - such as Citizens Advice Scotland, Shelter Scotland and Money Advice Scotland - are backing the campaign.
Ms Sturgeon said:
"As the recession bites, families across Scotland are feeling the pressure financially, with increases in food prices, rising bills and mortgage and lending uncertainty all adding to the headache.
"National Debtline will provide the best possible support for people with debt problems. The advice is free, confidential and independent.
"The main message we want to get across is for people to take control of their debt, before it controls them. The first step to beating debt is to face up to it and recognise you need to do something about it sooner rather than later."
"This Government will do all it can to help those in difficulty, and that's why I would urge anyone experiencing financial problems to call National Debtline.
Joanna Elson from The Money Advice Trust, said:
"This campaign is all about empowering people to face up to their debt before they find themselves faced with an uncertain financial future.
"It's important not to sit worrying - make the call today and take control of your debt.
"We are delighted that the Scottish Government have taken this initiative and is working hard to promote and support the work of the free debt advice sector."
Yvonne Gallacher, Chief Executive, Money Advice Scotland, said:
"Money Advice Scotland highly endorses this very important campaign. We know from lots of experience of dealing with people in debt, that the earlier they seek help the better.
"Early intervention is the best possible cure for debt problems. People shouldn't be afraid to make the phone call, as it will be the first positive step to dealing with the problem, and it may give them a good night's sleep for the first time in a long time."
James Jopling, Head of Campaigns for Shelter Scotland, the housing and homelessness charity, said;
"It is always best to seek advice as early as possible if you are facing financial trouble paying for your home.
"Don't bury your head in the sand, talk to your lender or advice bodies about, for example, repayment plans, or if you are facing repossession, about the Scottish Government's Mortgage to Rent scheme."
Kennedy Foster, Policy Adviser, Council of Mortgage Lenders Scotland, said:
"Anyone struggling to pay their mortgage should talk to their lender and seek free, independent debt advice. These simple actions can make a huge difference.
"A debt adviser can assess your complete financial situation, look at ways to maximise your income, plan a budget and pay your priority debts.
"Your mortgage lender will work with a debt adviser, acting on your behalf, to try to reach a reasonable repayment solution that allows you to stay in your home."