Money Survival Kit for single parents.

One Space site for finance and debt advice
The Single Parent Action Network is providing a 1-2-1 benefits, money and debt advice service to help one parent families on low income avoid debt and financial crisis.

We are asking front-line practitioners if they will signpost single parents to the One Space site and help them to avoid the debt that is very often triggered by Christmas.
SPAN’s social networking site for single parents, www.onespace.org.uk has recently launched a new online ‘Money Survival Kit’ to give immediate help to single parents facing financial crisis. SPAN is encouraging front-line staff in children’s centres, community groups, housing associations and faith groups to support single parents in accessing the site. It also contains useful information for front-line staff on finance and debt issues.

The One Space ‘Money Survival Kit’ provides a range of money saving solutions which single parents can access at a time and place which is convenient for them. The online resources include 1-2-1 finance and debt advice via email as well as solution-based case studies that reflect real life experiences.

Debt at this time of year can spiral out of control, especially through door stop lenders and high bank charges. This can have a knock-on effect, leading to not paying the rent or council tax - building up arrears and then potentially facing the bailiffs. Another significant trigger point for debt is separation and divorce. There is so much to deal with – applying for benefits/tax credits; maintenance issues/ mortgage and housing issues. The officialdom and complexity of it all means that problems can build up making it harder to address, especially when there is also the emotional pressure and depression.

For more information on real life practical help for those facing financial problems visit www.onespace.org.uk and click on ‘Money Survival Kit’

SPAN, Millpond, Baptist Street, Easton, Bristol BS5 0YW Tel: 0117 9514231
Email: info@spanuk.org.uk

Top Tips to Avoid Christmas Debt Hangover

10 top tips for avoiding debt


The Citizen's Advice Bureau is urging people to avoid starting 2010 with a Christmas debt hangover, and has published a 'top tips' leaflet on how to avoid this.


The leaflet suggests:

1. Plan early for Christmas and budget accordingly

2. Don't forget everyday bills and pay them on time

3. Don't rely on an overdraft

4. Pay outright if possible to avoid credit card debt

5. Shop around for the best prices

6. Avoid buying from unauthorised traders

7. Do your own credit checks on card interest rates

8. Always read the small print on credit card terms

9. Be organised and repay outstanding debts on time

10.Start planning and saving for next Christmas.