40 days of January - post-Xmas debt driving people to despair

One support group in Stoke-on-Trent reported a surge as people struggle with finances after Christmas.

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Image: Debt is a huge worry for many this time of year
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Nearly half of all people in problem debt also suffer with their mental health, according to research by the Money and Mental Health policy institute.

This is the worst week of the year for people reaching crisis point over their debt with one person every 10 seconds calling the Citizens Advice Bureau for help.

A support group for men with depression and suicidal thoughts say they've seen a surge in the number of people in crisis due to the financial pressure of January.

Craig Spillane from Stoke-on-Trent founded Men Unite after one of his best friends tried to take their life after Christmas in 2018.

He initially invited around 30 friends to a group to talk about their problems - eight months later it now has more than 11,000 members.

Craig Spillane from Stoke-on-Trent founded Men Unite
Image: Craig Spillane from Stoke-on-Trent founded Men Unite

Mr Spillane told Sky News this month is the worst he's seen.

He said: "January has 40 days in it. Everybody's waiting for pay day.

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"We're hearing people that are working seven days a week and still can't make ends meet. The other day one guy in particular was stood on a bridge wanting to take his own life and he works full time still.

"He'd had a few days off work, he'd not slept for a few days because of the stress. He decided the easiest way was to jump off a bridge.

"He'd got no gas, no electric, he'd not eaten for a couple of days."

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Debt and depression: 'It can be a struggle'

In the last three years the Citizens Advice Bureau has seen its busiest day for debt-related calls in the last week of January. Last year the volume of calls was up 24% on the usual daily average.

Household debts remain the most common issues for people seeking help.

More than 32,800 people have contacted the Citizens Advice Bureau so far this month with council tax the biggest single issue.

In 2019:

  • 88,405 people sought help with council tax arrears
  • 86,210 people sought advice on debts related to utilities including fuel, water, phone and broadband costs
  • 72,358 had problems with rent arrears.

Source: Citizens Advice Bureau

Dan Lambert works seven days a week but struggles to make ends meet
Image: Dan Lambert works seven days a week but struggles to make ends meet

But people aren't just turning to debt advisers and support groups for help. Father-of-four Dan Lambert has also been to see his GP over money-related stress.

Mr Lambert works seven days a week as a self-employed taxi driver but it will take him about three months to repay the £350 he borrowed to get through Christmas.

He says the worry has pushed him to breaking point.

"I've been to the doctors and been prescribed medication because of suicidal thoughts," Mr Lambert said.

"You try and put a brave face on and you can put things on Facebook and you want to seem as if you're doing the best. But really... people put a front on."

About 1.5 million people in England are currently struggling with both problem debt and mental health problems, and more than 100,000 people in problem debt attempt suicide, according to the Money & Mental Health Policy Institute.

While middle-aged men are three times more at risk of suicide than women, the Samaritans has also identified men living in the most deprived areas are up to ten times more at risk of taking their own lives than those living in the most affluent areas.

Cristian Montano lost everything when he lost his job
Image: Cristian Montano lost everything when he lost his job

Cristian Montano who plays for Port Vale FC has experienced both sides - an affluent life as a footballer and one where he lost everything.

He told Sky News: "When I lost my job I couldn't really help my mum, I couldn't help my kid.

"It made me feel worthless. It made me feel like I didn't belong in this world for them, or even for myself.

"I tried to take my own life because I felt like I've let myself down, I've let everyone down.

"I would advise and encourage those that are having any difficulty in their life, no matter who you are or what you do, I want to encourage you to speak out."

Dame Gillian Guy, chief executive of Citizens Advice said: "There is typically a surge in demand for our debt advice towards the second half of January. Many of the people who come to us have fallen into debt because they can't meet the cost of essential bills.

"Utility bills, rent arrears and debts owed on council tax are key reasons people seek our help. Citizens Advice can offer free and independent advice and support to help you deal with your debts and get back on your feet."

Anyone feeling emotionally distressed or suicidal can call Samaritans for help on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org in the UK. In the US, call the Samaritans branch in your area or 1 (800) 273-TALK.