This time of year can pile on the pressure to already stretched finances, even more so after a further year of uncertainties brought about by COVID-19.

You may have lost your job or have had your working hours reduced or found yourself out of work for a long period due to temporary business closures.

If you are struggling to pay your rent or mortgage or have found yourself having to live with families or friends, whatever you’re your personal situation is, there is help and support available.

Asking for help is not always easy and may mean uneasy conversations, but the sooner you can ask for help, the better it is. Asking for help is the first step to taking control.

Councillor Christine Carter, Cabinet Member for Corporate and Community Services for Torbay Council said: “Asking for help is not always easy particularly when it involves talking about financial difficulties and/or personal issues.

In Torbay, there are people and organisations available to provide specialist advice and support on these matters and can ensure you get the help you need. No one should feel helpless or alone when having to deal with these sorts of issues and getting help sooner rather than later is always better.”

The worried you might lose your home page has lots of information that can help you get the support you need or you can call 01803 208025.