A south Derry advice service has handled a staggering £3.5 million in debt in the last 11 months it has emerged.
The shocking extent of debt in the distrtict emerged at the launch of a specialised advice service in Magherafelt last week.
Funded by the local council, Magherafelt District Advice Service, recently secured funding from the Department of Enterprise Trade and Industry (DETI) and Ulster Bank for a specialist debt advisor.
The new service, which is free and confidential, is being provided by man Aidan Gribbin who offers assistance, support and guidance to people experiencing problems with debt or who need help with budgeting.
Mr Gribbin said: “Northern Ireland and especially the Mid Ulster Area, has suffered much economic gloom as a result of the downturn and many families have been adversely affected by the recession. By offering the Debt Action project we are hopeful that we can help those who are struggling financially by providing a professional advice service that is accessible to all.”
Meanwhile, Magherafelt District Advice Service, offers a range of valuable services to people who live in the district.
The organisation has an Energy Efficiency Worker, Maura Barker who deals with the local Warm Homes Scheme and a full time Outreach Worker and telephone advisor, Sharon Smith, who can provide all pensioners with a full benefit check to maximise their income and ensure they are claiming everything they are entitled to.
A spokeswoman said: “You may be entitled to benefits that you have not been able to claim before. These benefits could really help improve your standard of living by giving you extra money towards housing costs‚ care needs and other day to day expenses.”
The service can provide information and advice in a number of areas including:
Pension Credits, Disability Benefits, Carers Issues, Rates and Housing Benefits
Social Fund Grants and Loans, Blue Badge and Travel Issues
Help with Health Costs, Care and Support in the Community
Housing Issues, Grants, Aids, Money towards Heating Costs and Warm Homes Schemes
Debt Advice, Money Management and Budgeting.
Existing Outreach Clinics are running throughout the district council area on the following sites, with others opening soon.
Maghera Leisure Centre, Castledawson, Riverpark House. Bellaghy, GP Surgery. Tobermore, Community Development Park. Lough Fea, CHARIS Cancer Care Complex.
Home visits can be arranged if required.
All advice is offered on a free, confidential and impartial basis and the Magherafelt District Advice Service office is open from Monday to Thursday 9am to 5pm and Friday 9am to 4.30pm,
The service is closed 1pm to 2 pm each day for lunch.
To arrange an appointment for debt or money advice at the office or for a home visit if applicable, contact Aidan or any other adviser on 02879 300444 during office hours, or via email aidan@magherafeltadvice.co.uk
If you have an urgent debt query outside office hours please contact Advice NI on 028 90645919.