New debt advice service launched in Lisburn

A NEW free debt advice service managed by local charity Advice NI, funded by the Department of Enterprise Trade and Industry (DETI) and the Ulster Bank was officially launched by the Major of Lisburn this week.

Thanks to this funding Advice NI have been able to recruit the equivalent of 16 full time advisors, who are providing 600 hours of debt advice in 13 council different areas. The project will complement existing debt advice services as well as reaching into areas and sectors of society where services had not previously been available.

The Debt Action NI service in Lisburn opened its doors on January 11. The highly skilled professional trained advisers provide a free, confidential and impartial debt service to anyone living in the Lisburn area and surrounding areas.

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Speaking at the launch, Fiona Magee, Deputy Director for Advice NI said: "Debt crosses no borders and affects people from all walks of life. With the recession, the downturn in the housing market and limited access to affordable credit, the demand and need for debt advice has never been higher."

The Mayor of Lisburn agreed that the service was much needed in the local area given the current financial climate.

Debt Action NI services are timely and Advice NI and the advisors on the project will work to ensure that client's receive the best service and are offered appropriate strategies to help them deal with their debt.

This can include advice on income maximization, budgeting, debt management plans, and more serious issues like bankruptcy and repossessions.

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The service is based at 52a Bachelors Walk, open Monday to Thursday 9.00 am – 5.00 pm and Friday 9.00 am – 4.30 pm with two outreach services in Poleglass and Dunmurry. Anyone wishing to access the service can contact Nicole Byrne or Nuala McCaffrey on 028 9260 7840 or 07578 417 678.

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