Managing money, managing debts and charities

We all need to use money and lots of us are not very good at dealing with it.

To avoid problems with money and feel in control it is a sound idea to assess your present situation.

On several of the websites listed below there are hints on how to work out how much money you have coming in and how much you need to pay out on a weekly or monthly basis.  You can then decide how best to avoid or overcome debt.

If you are in debt do not ignore the problem - it will only get worse. 

• Don’t ignore letters or phone-calls from companies you owe. If you don’t feel confident enough to deal with them ask for help
• Do get help from an expert – things may not be as bad as you think
• Don’t panic – some companies and private loan companies will use pressure to try to make you pay them. Remember to divide your debts into Priority and Non-priority this will help you pay the important things first.
• Do remember to check you are receiving all the benefits and help you are entitled to. Many people get into debt when their circumstances change such as they become too ill to work.
• Do share your worries. Being in debt is very stressful and can cause depression but getting help and feeling more in control can help.

Investments

If you have money to spare (capital) this can be invested through a financial institution to give you an income.  It is always best to seek independent financial advice.

Local contacts

Age UK

Oxfordshire, City and County
Tel: 0844 8870005

Age UK

Chipping Norton
Tel: 01608 643458

Citizens Advice Oxfordshire

For the following offices telephone or to get information about sub offices within their district

Tel: 08444 111 444

• Abingdon
• Banbury
• Bicester
• Chipping Norton
• Didcot
• Henley
• Oxford
• Thame
• Witney

National contacts

Age UK

Tel: 0800 169 6565 (Advice)

National debtline freephone

Tel: 0808 808 4000 (Monday – Friday 9am – 9pm & Saturday 9.30am – 1pm)

Community Legal Service Direct

Tel: 0845 345 4345 (local call rate)

Charity Search

Charity Search delivers a free service which helps older people in genuine financial need receive the support that may be available to them from a variety of charitable sources.

Tel: 0117 982 4060

Please note: The organisations listed on this page are not endorsed or recommended by Oxfordshire County Council and the contact details are provided for information only.

Please feel free to contact any of the organisations on this fact sheet yourself. If required, Carers Oxfordshire can also help you further. You can contact them on 0845 050 7666, Monday to Thursday 08:30-17:00, Friday 08:30-16:00