I've spent too much. What do I do?

Your debt will not go away, you must tackle the problem before it escalates out of control.

Debt can be enormously stressful, so it is important to tell someone.

If you can not tell a member of your family, there are a number of charities who can help you cope with the stress and help you work out a debt management strategy.

You should then sit down and prioritise your responsibilities.

For example, meeting repayments on essential services such as your mortgage and utility bills should be your first concern.

If you are paying off a range of credit cards and store cards, you should pay off those with the highest rate of interest first.

You could also switch your balance to a credit card which charges a lower rate of interest - there are many providers of these special "balance transfer" deals.

Despite what you may think, most companies are sympathetic to people who cannot afford repayments.

Recovering debt can be enormously expensive, so they are often willing to work out an agreement with you.

Is there anyone who can help me?

There are number of free advice organisations which may be able to help you sort out your debt.

Citizens Advice Bureaux
CABx give free, confidential and impartial advice on debt. Details of your nearest bureau can be found in your local telephone directory.

Advice UK
12th Floor, New London Bridge House,
25 London Bridge Street, London SE1 9ST
Tel 020 7407 4070

For agencies in Northern Ireland, contact the Association of Independent Advice Centres on 028 9064 5919

National Debtline
This is a free telephone helpline for people with debt problems in England, Scotland and Wales.
Tel 0808 808 4000

Consumer Credit Counselling Service
Provides free confidential service to help achieve realistic solutions to debt problems, avoid bankruptcy and learn to handle money.
Tel 0800 138 1111