‘Don’t suffer in silence if debt is affecting you’

Following a summer of great weather, where heating bills and high electricity use would not have been an issue, Citizens Advice Guernsey is worried that many will soon find themselves hit with the effects of spiralling inflation, with heating and lighting required once again.

‘We haven’t seen the increase in islanders requiring our help so far that we were expecting, but that is why we’re worried, because the effects haven’t hit yet,’ said CEO Kerry Ciotti.

‘It’s scary how many people this could affect, and it could see people struggling with debt who may not have ever been in debt before.’

As the cost of living continues to rise, so do interest rates, and Mrs Ciotti said that it is expected these will still increase two or three times more yet.

Money adviser John Stuart said that the team was worried that some islanders may be ‘kicking the can down the road’ and extending existing loans rather than seeking help to deal with outstanding debts.

‘We’re just concerned that with more bills, rising mortgages and cost of living, that people will bury their heads and take out new loans or consolidation loans,’ said Mrs Ciotti.

‘Booking that first appointment with a money adviser is the key step towards taking control of debt and the earlier you do it, the quicker we can help. Please don’t suffer in silence.’

Citizens Advice handles about 10,000 inquiries each year, helping about 8% of islanders with matters regarding housing, debt and employment, and clients managing debts totalling around £3m. each year.

Mrs Ciotti said its service was free, non-judgemental and confidential.

‘Our trained money advisers are fully focused on how to help a client, rather than how their problems arose, and nothing is ever done without their agreement.’

Throughout the process, the advisers would ensure there was enough money to pay for basic needs as well as managing debts.