Struggling consumers 'should seek free advice'

Thursday, November 26th 2009

Britons who are worried about their finances should make free advice services their first port of call, according to one expert.

Chris Tapp, director of Credit Action, said not enough people are aware of the free offerings provided by charities such as Citizens Advice, as well as online resources such as those found on the BBC's website.

"Unfortunately, a whole industry now exists to provide people with support when they are in financial difficulties, but which actually exists to make profit off of people in difficulties," he explained.

Mr Tapp added that more people than ever before seem to be struggling with their finances at present, especially as the recession is continuing for longer than expected.

Recent research by CreditExpert indicated that some Britons are suffering physical symptoms of money-related stress.

These include pains in the neck, shoulder and arm, the company said, as well as bouts of pins and needles.