COUNSELLORS at Citizen Advice offices throughout Wiltshire are bracing themselves for the busiest period of the year as more than 400 people are expected to want financial advice in January.

Wiltshire Citizens Advice, which has offices in nine towns including Devizes, Calne, Chippenham, Royal Wootton Bassett, Melksham, Trowbridge and Warminster, expects demand to be at its peak this week if last year's pattern is repeated.

The post Christmas reality check following the present buying bonanza of December means more people are seeking help from experts from Citizens Advice.

Suzanne Wigmore, Chief Executive of Wiltshire Citizens Advice said: “Although debt worries can be more acute in January people are also taking stock of their finances and thinking about the future.

“It doesn’t matter what you earn - whether you are on minimum wage or have a comfortable salary - everyone can benefit from reviewing their finances.

“Considering your overall financial situation can help you find a solution for urgent problems, and start planning your finances so that you are better prepared for tomorrow and more financially secure in the long term.

“If you’d like to understand more about how your circumstances affect your money options or are struggling with debt, Citizens Advice can give you the information and advice you need to find a way forward.”

Analysis by the national charity shows that across the country, demand for money and debt advice is highest in January and February, with one person contacting their nearest Citizens Advice for help every 11 seconds and people visiting the Citizens Advice website every 3 seconds in January.

January 12 was expected to be the busiest day.

Wiltshire Citizens Advice anticipates that people are most likely to seek advice on personal pensions, bank accounts and insurance, while those with debts need help with council tax arrears, credit card debts and rent arrears.

If you’re over 50 and have a defined contribution pension you can get free a Pension Wise appointment to learn more about taking your pension.

To help people get started, Wiltshire Citizens Advice is sharing its eight top tips to help people get their finances in order for the New Year. To see the advice or find out about offices and opening hours go to www.cabwiltshire.org.uk

Or contact Wiltshire Citizens Advice on 03444 111 444. Lines are open 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.