Golden rules for dealing with debt

If you are having money problems, you may find this advice useful:

• Don't ignore the problem. It won't go away. The longer you leave it, the worse it will get.
• Don't borrow money to pay off your debts without thinking carefully about how you will repay them. Get advice first.
• Check you are claiming all the benefits and tax credits you can.
• Get in touch with the people you owe money to (your creditors) straight away. Go and see them, phone them or write to them.
• Always pay your priority debts first.
• Make reasonable offers to your creditors. A reasonable amount every month will keep them happier than an offer you can't afford or maintain.
• If you are sent to court, fill in reply forms, this will help the judge decide how much you can afford.
• Always attend court hearings and take a copy of your budget with you. The County Court won't make you a criminal. There is no jury. You won't go to prison, but you could lose your home.
• Keep copies of letters or forms you send to and receive from Lewisham Homes or the Council.