Don't leave it until it's too late, says charity

Residents in the area who might be struggling to pay rent, council tax and utility bills during the coronavirus situation are being urged to deal with it now rather than leave it to get worse.

Citizens Advice Bureau Powys, charity based in Newtown, has urged anyone in financial difficulty to get in touch with them so that they can offer advice on what to do.

"We are urging people to contact us as soon as possible, so we can help," said Jasmin Bell, CABP Manager.

"At Citizens Advice Powys all of our services are still available via telephone. We know that a lot of people have had a drop in income and are starting to struggle to manage their money. 

"Bills (mortgage, council tax, energy, loans, overdrafts, credit cards) - It’s important you don’t ignore your bills. We can help to arrange affordable repayments."

Some help could include:
 
Rent - if you can’t pay your rent, you may be entitled to benefits to help with housing costs if your income has reduced, even if you’re still working.  

Benefits - You might be able to claim benefits or get more money if you’re already getting benefits. We can check what benefits you are entitled to and help you make a claim. 

If you have no money for food, you might be able get help from a food bank we can refer you to a food bank. 

Anyone who has less money because of Coronavirus should contact Citizens Advice Powys on 0345 601 8421 Monday to Friday, 9am to 3pm.