Debt advice is a new growth industry, with thousands of people (many of whom are unlicensed and inexperienced) employed to give advice. Many Advisors are often Volunteers, like those working for organisations such as “The Citizens Advice Bureau and have your best interests at heart, but others are little more than hard-sell operators pushing high cost debt management/consolidation plans or IVA’s that are not best suited to particular circumstances.

All advice should be free. Always ask to see your Advisors licence and always speak to some people they claim to have helped. Remember that if a proposal sounds too good to be true, it probably is!

A list of “organisations” and good web-sites to visit can be found at the end of this report. We at Phoenix & Co, also advise, free of charge, on all personal insolvency procedures.

Where to Go for Help and Advice.

There are 100′s of websites/companies offering debt advice and solutions-just choose wisely. The following reputable organisations provide free advice and are worth contacting.

Business Debtline is a charity that provides free telephone help for the self-employed and small businesses facing financial difficulties. Helpline on 0800 197 6026.Web is www.bdl.org.uk

Citizens Advice (CAB) is a charity that offers free, independent and confidential advice from more than 700 offices throughout the UK. Helpline on 0207 833 2181. Web is www.adviceguide.org.uk

Consumer Credit Counselling Service (CCCS) is a charity providing free counselling and money-management help to families and individuals. Helpline on 0800 138 1111. Web is www.cccs.co.uk

The Insolvency Service is a Government agency that covers all insolvency matters and provides excellent advice on the telephone 0845 602 9848, or via their website at www.insolvency.gov.uk

National Debtline offers free, independent and confidential advice over the telephone. Helpline is 0808 808 4000. Web is www.nationaldebtline.co.uk

Phoenix & Co offer free, independent advice to local South West businesses. Licensed Recovery & Insolvency Practitioners. Telephone 01392 314092. Web is www.phoenixing.co.uk