Ashfield Citizens' Advice Bureau — which is based in Sutton but deals with problems from across the area — saw a 13 per cent increase in enquiries.

These included a 29 per cent rise in renting problems, a 23 per cent increase in tax benefits matters, a three per cent rise in employment issues and a 10 per cent increase in Council Tax benefit questions between July and September compared to the previous quarter.

And as the country is plunged deeper into the downturn, staff at the bureau believe the number of enquiries could be even higher for the next few months.

Advisors have been dealing with issues such as home repossession and the knock-on effect of moving into rented accommodation and the problems this might bring.

In addition, money problems may also effect people's relationships and the bureau saw a 12 per cent increase in these matters.

But service manager Janice Abraham says the increase in enquiries is not necessarily a bad thing — as it means people are now seeking advice early on.

"People are coming to see us early on when they are at the point of not being able to afford a payment rather than when it is too late," she said. "They are also more aware of the services we offer.

"We have produced a leaflet called Avoiding a Financial Hangover about avoiding getting into debt in the run-up to Christmas which is available from the office."

For more details or to obtain advice contact the Citizens' Advice Bureau on Mansfield 555312, 08444994723 or call into the Market Street branch.