It's really common for people to avoid facing up to debt problems, even avoiding opening the post as a result. 

But leaving bills to mount up will only make it worse. You are not alone in having debt issues, and you do not need to be alone in sorting them out. The sooner you start, the sooner things will be on the path to being sorted.

Visit our Debt advice hub

Visit your nearest Nottingham Advice Centre, taking paperwork like bills and bank statements with you. An adviser will help you put a plan in place.

Did you know that many benefits go unclaimed because people don't know what they're entitled to?

Last year, Nottingham advice services helped people to access more than £19 million worth of unclaimed benefits and tax credits - often by helping to overturn benefits which were wrongly refused. 

To check what you're entitled to, visit our Benefits advice hub, or visit an adviser. 

If you need to borrow money, always look at the total cost, including any fees. The cheapest place to borrow will always be a bank, building society or the Nottingham Credit Union.

Don't be fooled by payday lenders, high-street 'rent to buy' shops or lenders who come to your front door - they might seem like an easy way to get cash quickly, but you will end up paying a lot more because of their high interest rates.  

Find out more about borrowing so you don't pay more than you need to

Choose a responsible lender with low interest rates. Nottingham Credit Union offers low cost loans from as little as £100. 

Many free or cheap meals are available across Nottingham - they're a great opportunity to have a tasty meal with friendly people. 

Food banks are also available near you - simply drop in if you need help. 

Find food banks and meals near you