If you are struggling to pay your mortgage, speak to your lender without delay. For advice about doing this and the options available see the NHAS_Mortgage Advice leaflet. You can pick up a copy of this leaflet at the Council's Customer Service Centres in Burton and Uttoxeter. Free financial advice is available at The Money Advice Service. For specialist and free debt advice contact National debtline on 0808 808 400 or the Step Change Debt Charity or see My Money Steps. Free debt advice and free debt management services are available from Payplan. For benefits and finding work contact Jobcentre Plus on 0845 6060 234 or at Job Centre Plus. For financial advice, debt, benefits and mortgage difficulties contact the Citizen's Advice Bureau. Work out how much you are receiving and spending by completing a financial statement here. If you smoke, think how much money quitting would save you; contact Time to Quit free on 0800 0434304 or see smokefree for help.

If your lender has told you they are going to repossess your home, contact Housing Options on 01283 508120 for help and advice. We may be able to help save your home.

If your lender is taking repossession proceedings, repossession is not a foregone conclusion. It is worth making every effort to attend the court hearing. At most courts there is a court desk service of solicitors able to represent you if you arrive early and discuss your case with them. At Burton County Court this service is provided by Derbyshire Housing Aid. If you do this the court may decide not to grant possession to your lender so that you can keep your home.

If you are facing lots of competing debts, make an appointment with the Money Advisor at East Staffordshire Citizens Advice Bureau on (01283) 566722.

Also see:

Advice from the Government at Direct Gov.

Advice from housing charity Shelter.