Debtors Struggling with Christmas Costs Advised to Seek Support

Anyone who lives in Scotland and is struggling to cover the costs of Christmas this year is being urged to reach out for support and advice if they need it.

With the cost of living crisis piling pressure onto the finances of millions of households across Scotland and the UK, people who find themselves really battling to manage their money are being advised that help is always readily available.

The charity Advice Direct Scotland has highlighted its own websites and services which offer guidance to people who are finding it tough to cope with their debts.

The Christmas period is well understood to be one during which lots of people take on more debt or generally feel a financial pinch, with this year expected to be particularly difficult financially for a huge number of UK households.

As well as encouraging people to keep their costs down if they can, Advice Direct Scotland is aiming to highlight the point that anyone worried about their debt situation either at Christmas or in the new year doesn’t need to suffer alone or in silence.

“It is an incredibly challenging time and the festive period will only add to the pressure as people are expected to spend money on gifts and food,” Colin Mathieson from the charity is quoted as saying by Third Force News.

“We also know that this is likely to exacerbate existing debt problems or create new ones for those who have never found themselves in debt before,” he added.

“Help is available and it is important for people to know they do not have to suffer alone.”

The debt help charity StepChange recently urged consumers and households right across the UK not to use unaffordable debt to cover their Christmas outgoings.

The charity noted that almost one in 10 Brits expect to rely on debt to pay for their Christmases, with a growing number likely to make some use of Buy Now, Pay Later deals.

Richard Lane from StepChange warned: “If you’re thinking about using credit cards or Buy Now, Pay Later to fund your festive spending, do pause and consider whether you will be in a position to comfortably meet the repayments.

“If you’re worried about your finances,” he said, “you don’t need to suffer in silence - and you don’t need to wait until January”.

If you live anywhere in Scotland and you are worried about your personal debt situation then Scotland Debt Solutions can help. Contact us directly to arrange a FREE and confidential consultation.