Over 900 people across Bath and North East Somerset have applied for a Debt Relief Order in the last 10 years, helping them to deal with financial crisis.
The newly-published official figures have been highlighted by the free National Debtline advice service.
The charity predicts that many more residents in the district who are in financial difficulty will soon become eligible for Debt Relief Orders, ahead of “welcome” changes starting this month.
A Debt Relief Order is a way of dealing with debt, designed for people with low incomes and few assets, and can give eligible people a fresh start by writing off unmanageable debts after 12 months.
National Debtline’s analysis of new figures published by the Insolvency Service shows a total of 962 people in Bath and North East Somerset have applied for an order in the last 10 years.
Changes announced in last month’s Budget will remove the long-standing £90 fee to apply for a Debt Relief Order from 6th April onwards.
Further changes to eligibility rules from 28th June, include an increase to the maximum level of debt applicants can have from £30,000 to £50,000.
National Debtline says that these changes will mean Debt Relief Orders will become an option for many more people in future.
Separate findings from the government-backed Money and Pensions Service suggest that 9% of Bath and North East Somerset residents are in need of debt advice, which National Debtline says shows the continuing impact of the cost of living crisis on local families.
The service is urging anyone who is struggling to seek free debt advice by calling 0808 808 4000.
National Debtline provides free, independent debt advice over the phone and online, and is also able to register people who are eligible for a Debt Relief Order where this is the best option for them.
The charity has further information about Debt Relief Orders at: www.nationaldebtline.org/debt-relief-orders.
Steve Vaid, Chief Executive of the Money Advice Trust, the charity that runs National Debtline, said: “Millions of people are feeling the impact of the cost of living crisis, and for many the effects have left deep financial scars.
“With 9% of Bath and North East Somerset residents in need of debt advice now, our message to anyone worried about their finances is to seek free advice from National Debtline as soon as possible.
“No one has to face their debts alone – our expert National Debtline advisers are here to help, and will work with you to make a plan to tackle your debts.
“And with welcome changes to Debt Relief Orders starting from this month, this option will now become available to more people who are unable to repay what they owe.
“Whether or not you are eligible for any particular debt solution, there is always something that National Debtline advisers can do to help – so I would urge anyone struggling to get in touch straight away.”
Eight in 10 callers to National Debtline last year saw their debts reduce or stabilise after receiving free advice from an expert adviser.