People get into debt for all sorts of reasons, for example, losing a job, taking on a caring role, becoming pregnant, separating from a partner or becoming ill or disabled.

If you have borrowed more money than you can repay, or you have built up rent or fuel bills that you cannot afford to pay back, then you must take steps to sort things out.

It can be tempting to bury your head in the sand, but the longer you leave it, the worse it will get. Help and support is available and you will be able to take control of your finances again and look positively towards the future.

You can start taking control of your money problems today. Go to our 'Coping with debt' page to find more information and links to easy-to-understand help and advice about managing debt problems.

You can also compare different ways of 'borrowing money' and find out how to cope financially with 'changes' in your life.

For free, money advice, to help you make the most of your money, visit the Money Advice Service website, or call 0300 500 5000.

It's an emergency. My creditors are threatening me with serious action, what can I do?

It is best to get some advice straight away, for example, from your local Citizens Advice Bureau. You can find your nearest bureau by visiting the Citizens Advice Bureau.

St Leger Homes also works closely with Doncaster West Development Trust who provide a money advice service at various locations throughout the borough. Find out more about St Leger Homes' partnership with Doncaster West Development Trust and how to make an appointment with an advisor.

For free information and advice about debt, ring National Debtline on 0808 808 4000 or 'visit the National Debtline website'.

Alternatively you can visit the Stepchange (formerly known as the Consumer Credit Counselling Service).

You can also visit the 'Managing Debt' section of the GOV.UK website to find out more about coping with debt.

Where can I get help and advice locally?

Success Doncaster has a guide for anyone wanting details on providers of Debt Advice, Benefits Advice, Housing Advice, Job Advice, Financial Training and General Support available in Doncaster. Find out more here.

Doncaster West Development Trust hold free money guidance groups throughout the borough entitled Money Matters. The monthly meetings offer 12 steps to wealth, health and well-being.                                                                                                             The 12 steps are: Starting point, Do we need it?, How to budget, Dealing with debt, Avoiding debt, Good/bad borrowing, Relaxation techniques, How to spend wisely, Ways to save, Cook on a budget, Reflection, and Celebration well-being event.

To find out more or to speak with the Money Guide for your area contact 01709 868880.