Mortgage/ Rent Arrears
If you are or foresee problems in paying your rent/mortgage do not avoid the issue.
Firstly, talking to your mortgage company/landlord is the best way to avoid making the situation worse for yourself.
They will be able to give you options for before/after you fall into arrears.
Secondly, contact your local Citizens advice to see if there is anything they can do for you. You may be entitled to benefits which you are not currently claiming or you may be offered an appointment with a specialist adviser. To find out how your local Citizens Advice Bureau can help you, please contact them directly.
There is also information and advice at www.adviceguide.org.uk and www.bournemouthhousingadvice.co.uk/
Local Dorset Bureaux
Purbeck Citizens Advice Bureau - 01929 551257
Weymouth and Portland Citizens Advice Bureau - 01305 782798
Dorchester & District Citizens Advice - 0845 231 0400
Christchurch Citizens Advice Bureau - 01202 482023 - Advice Line
Poole Citizens Advice Bureau - 01202 680838 – Advice Line
Bridport Citizens Advice Bureau - 01308 456594
East Dorset Citizens Advice Bureau - 01202 884738
Ferndown Citizens Advice Bureau - 01202 893838
North Dorset Citizens Advice Bureau - 01747 822117
Sherborne & District Citizens Advice Bureau - 0844 8487939
There is also the Dorset Rural out of hours service - 08444 772022
Shelter: 0808 800 0380
Debt line: 0808 808 4000
Payplan: 0800 716 239
Consumer Credit Counselling Service: 0800 138 1111
http://mortgagehelp.direct.gov.uk/
If you are not from Bournemouth your council may also have housing advisors. You should contact your local council for more information.
County Court
If you do find yourself at the stage where your landlord/ mortgage provider is in the process of reposession. Bournemouth Citizens Advice Bureau have debt advisers who attend Bournemouth County Court on alternating Tuesdays. They can provide advice on your situation and offer representation during the preceedings. If you are not from Bournemouth contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau to find out if they have a Court desk at your local County Court.
