I would like to provide some facts about debt advice provided by Wiltshire Citizens Advice (CAB) in response to the letter by D Thomas of Hisomley (January 2).

We provide free debt advice and one-to-one budgeting help. Last year we helped 4,000 people across Wiltshire with nearly 14,000 debt problems. We also provide financial capability education to groups and individuals to help them develop skills, knowledge and confidence to manage their money better.

A recent independent review of our face-to-face debt advice service revealed that 88 per cent of people acted on it. Typical next steps included setting up a household budget to tackle their financial situation or contacting creditors and arranging to make reduced payments. Three in four of those who sought the advice reduced or cleared at least some of their debts within three to six months. Around one in 20 were able to clear their debts in full. Two in three people report a positive impact on their finances. On average people were £10 a week better off after financial capability training.

This January we expect to help even more people with money issues. We provide a free confidential service. We can be contacted on 0844 375 2775 (from a landline) 0300 456 8375 (from a mobile). Or visit our website www.cabwiltshire.org.uk.

Sarah Cardy, CEO, Wiltshire Citizens Advice, Mill Street, Trowbridge.