A debt charity is calling for people to think twice about overspending in the run up to the festive season.
Christians Against Poverty, which has an office in Hemel Hempstead, has issued ten top tips for saving money at Christmas time and avoiding the debt hangover into 2014.
The advice includes sharing the cost of Christmas lunch with family, agreeing a set budget for presents and taking time to think about the real meaning of Christmas.
Centre manager Owen Cooper said that while it’s rarely Christmas on its own that gets people in trouble, paying for it on credit can only make the problems worse.
“What starts off as a bit of an income boost can lead to difficulties when working hours get cut, the washing machine breaks or someone is ill.
“The point is, none of us know what’s around the corner for 2014.
“The best present for your family is to create some financial stability for when life throws the unexpected at us.”
For more information and help, visit www.capuk.org.
You can also call Owen direct on 01442 243 936 or email him at owencooper@capuk.org.