We have a page of general thoughts about debt problems.

You can get free advice about your own situation from

•   National Association of Citizens Advice Bureaux - 0207 833 2181
   
•   Consumer Credit Counselling Service - 0800 1381111
   
•   National Debtline - 0645 500511.

However, there may be a delay before you can see some of them.

We can also suggest a good source of professional help with debt problems.

When you ask to be put in touch with GFM, they will telephone you at a time convenient to you. If you wish, they will send someone to visit you at no extra cost.

They will then agree a repayment plan with the companies you owe money to, and distribute your monthly payments for you. To participate, you need to have at least £100 a month available to put towards your debts.

The only cost to you is a temporary deposit of £100. This will be added back to the first monthly payment you make through GFM.

GFM is an independent company, but the rest of its fees are paid by the lending companies themselves. (It's worth their while to do this because they are getting money back which they wouldn't have got otherwise.) They have provided examples of debt problems.

We think this is an ethical way to handle debt arrears. Please tell us of any good or bad experiences you have with GFM.

To contact GFM click here.

Remember that debt problems won't go away if you are not honest about them.

Be honest with the expert and with yourself about the cause. Tell them everything up front. It may or may not be your fault, but they can't do the best for you if they don't have all the facts.