DEBT experts in Taunton Deane have urged people struggling with their finances not to despair.

A new study released this week by debt specialists PayPlan placed Taunton in the top five places in the UK for enquiries.

A spokesman for Taunton Citizens’ Advice Bureau said help is at hand for those who get in difficulties.

He said: “If you have a problem with debt, it's important not to panic but don't ignore it either – it won’t go away.

“To deal with debt you need to sort out how much money you owe and work out the most urgent debts for you to pay.

“You need to contact your creditors and make arrangements to pay back what you owe and work out your options if you don't have enough money to pay off all your debts.”

The spokesman added that young people getting into debt is also an increasingly common problem.

He said: “We know the biggest debt issues facing young people relate to unsecured personal loans, credit and store card debts, and bank and building society overdrafts. Loan, card and overdraft providers are all types of ‘creditor’.

“Mobile phone debt is also a common issue. Although mobile phone providers are another type of creditor, some problems are unique to them. For example, unexpectedly large bills that are incorrect or have been run up by someone else.

“Once you’ve tackled your debts it’s important to make sure you don’t get into the same situation again.”

Jason Eaves, director of PayPlan, which carried out the study, said: “On average only one in six people with debt problems will seek help.

“Often these people feel isolated, alone and don’t know where to turn. We are being told the economy is ‘out of intensive care’ but there are still a few years ahead where people will continue to struggle financially.”

You can contact Taunton Citi-zens’ Advice Bureau on 01823-282235.