At this time of year it may seem everyone else but you is having a great time. But for some people Christmas can be a difficult time.

If you are finding Christmas a difficult time please remember people are available to help.

Samaritans

Samaritans is the only charity in Ireland offering emotional support 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to anyone who is in distress, lonely, struggling to cope or feeling suicidal.

Volunteers are on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week, on the freephone helpline number 116 123 and email jo@samaritans.ie.

Money Advice and Budgting Service (MABS)

MABS is the Irish money advice service. We have been supporting people with money advice, budgeting, and problem debt for 30 years.

Our service is free of charge.

We’re here for you if you need help with debt and budgeting. You can get impartial advice from MABS to help you manage your money and take control of debt. We offer support online, over the phone and face to face..

MABS can help you to:

• Develop a budget that works for you and your family.

• Find out if there are any entitlements you should be getting and help you to access them.

• Complete your Standard Financial Statement (SFS).

• Develop a plan to pay off your debts – always prioritising your family home.

• Give you information and advice on your mortgage debt and all of the options open to you, even if you’re facing repossession proceedings.

• Deal with your creditors.

• Negotiate on your behalf if it’s needed.

Contact MABS on the

MABS Helpline 0818 07 2000, Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm.