HELP AVAILABLE FOR THOSE IN DEBT

Local debt advisors say that people worried by debt are often unaware that help is available which could leave them free of debt in 12 months.

Angie Goodall, Debt Advisor with Tilly Bailey & Irvine Solicitors, says: “People can become incredibly burdened by debt.  However, most people do not know about Debt Relief Orders.  These are ideal for smaller debts, leaving the person debt free in a year, without having to pay back what they owe.  It is the ideal way to get back on track and out of debt.”

Tilly Bailey & Irvine Solicitors has been appointed by the Legal Services Commission to act as the Hartlepool advisor on social welfare under the legal aid scheme.  Through this scheme, it can obtain Debt Relief Orders for clients who meet the criteria.  This option is open to anyone owing no more than £15,000, with assets no greater than £300, and with less than £50 disposable income each month.

The debts are listed against the order, and, providing the person’s circumstances do not improve within 12 months, the debt is written off and they are then free of debt.  The only requirement is that the person pays a £90 fee to the insolvency service to process the application.

Angela added: “For many it’s a challenge to pay the £90 fee, but they find a way knowing that they will no longer have to deal with creditors and will ultimately be debt free.  You can sense the relief once the order is in place.

“Often people have suffered because of a change in circumstances leaves them unable to meet their outgoings.  However, we also see young people who have accepted credit despite being unable to meet the repayments.  What’s most important is that people know they have options and come and speak to us rather than to let debt get out of hand.”

The Debt Relief Order process is normally completed within six to eight weeks.  Angie Goodall and her colleague Mick Gordon are authorised intermediaries and members of the Institute of Money Advisors (IMA) and are able to process the applications.  As well as Debt Relief Orders, they can offer other solutions including bankruptcy orders, administration orders, or negotiation of reduced payments.

Tilly Bailey & Irvine Solicitors’ debt advice team operate a ‘drop-in’ system but recommend that, to guarantee an appointment, applicants call in advance on 01429 264101.