More Money going out than coming in?

Don't ignore money problems they won't go away!

If you feel unable to tackle your money problems/debts alone you can contact the Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB).  They offer a free and confidential service, with experienced Money Advice Workers to help you.  If you have multiple debts they may be able to negotiate on your behalf, or look at your benefit entitlement to make sure you are claiming for all you are entitled to.  They can be contacted on the following numbers:

• Bridgnorth and District - 01746 763838
• North Shropshire - 01630 657137
• Oswestry - 01691 654425
• Shrewsbury - 01743 243163
• South Shropshire - 01584 876933

How can I manage my money?

The best way to manage your money is by budgeting all of your incomings (ie wages, salaries, benefits etc) and outgoings (ie rents, bills etc) for each pay period, ie weekly if you get paid weekly or monthly if you get paid monthly.

By completing an income and expenditure sheet, which you can obtain from any CAB or contact the Housing Options Team at North Shropshire District Council, you might be able to see a clearer picture.  List all your income and all your expenditure (outgoings), remember include everything.

Once you have done this take the expenditure from the income to see what is left.  The amount remaining can be used to pay off debts.

Debts fall into 2 categories Priority and Non Priority.

Priority Debts are arrears owed for mortgage, rent, council tax, water rates, fuel etc.

Non Priority Debts are things like catalogues, HP, Credit cards, loans etc.

Remember Priority Debts result in Court action that may lead to eviction or even a short prison sentence.

If your expenditure exceeds your income you really should seek the help of a Money Advice Worker.

You can also contact North Shropshire Homelessness Action Partnership (NSHAP) who can also assist with Money Advice Tel: 01939 236956. 

Together with the Hosuing Options Team based at the Council offices in Wem, Shropshire Tel: 01939 238520.