Record numbers of people have been calling debt advice services in the first 2 weeks of the year, as traditional ‘January blues’ combine with record debt levels to leave more people struggling than ever before.

The Consumer Credit Counselling Service say they took 9,310 calls in the first 9 working days of the year, up 14% compared to the same time last year.

National Debtline also reported an unprecedented level of demand for their services, with the agency overwhelmed by nearly 13,000 callers. The charity said that it was unable to handle the volume, with around two thirds of callers unable to get through on their first attempt, although most people would have got an answer on subsequent tries.

Another 25 staff are to be added to the current total of 55, which the agency says should enable them to meet the demand.

Telephone numbers:

National Debtline - 0808 808 4000
Consumer Credit Counselling Service - 0800 138 1111

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