MP's Youtube message on debt advice

Families worried about paying the bills and holding on to their house are being urged to go along to a free advice workshop over the next few weeks.Events are being held in Rotherham, Barnsley and Doncaster later this month for householders to get fre

Families worried about paying the bills and holding on to their house are being urged to go along to a free advice workshop over the next few weeks.

Events are being held in Rotherham, Barnsley and Doncaster later this month for householders to get free advice from the Government and the Citizens Advice Bureau.

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Details of times, dates and locations have not yet been revealed but housing minister and Wentworth MP John Healey has issued a Youtube appeal encouraging people to take advantage of the support available.

Rotherham was earmarked last month as a repossession "hotspot", which means homes in the borough are considered at greater risk due to higher levels of unemployment and numbers of court orders for repossession.

Mr Healey said: "Many families will have money worries after Christmas and when they are under pressure with their finances the worst thing they can do is put off the problem.

"I want homeowners to know there's free help with their mortgage, by phone, website and local money advice agencies. 

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"I'm extending free advice services into 2010 with £4 million extra Government cash, and we're running a series of local events in repossession 'hotspots' so that face to face help is also on hand where it is most needed.

"I'm also making sure we continue our special help in court. 

"Even at the 11th hour when families are in court we're able to stop four out of five repossessions. 

"I urge people to make a New Year's resolution not to bury their heads in the sand but to make the most of the help available. 

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"The earlier people act, the more options they have and the better chance they have of safeguarding their home."

The Government has made free impartial advice available to homeowners online at www.direct.gov.uk/mortgagehelp and via the National Debtline on 0808 808 4000.

The extra £4 million will go local advice agencies like Shelter, debt advice agencies and 80 court desks across the country. 

Mr Healey's YouTube message to homeowners can be seen below