More information and advice on personal finance

National HIV charity, the Terrence Higgins Trust, runs a helpline called THT Direct, which offers support, information and advice over the telephone on a wide range of issues including benefits and debt.  They can put you in touch with organisations in your area for further assistance.  THT Direct - 0845 12 21 200.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) runs a telephone helpline giving information on benefits for sick and disabled people, their representatives and carers. This is called the Benefits Enquiry Line (BEL). In Northern Ireland, the Benefits Enquiry Line is run by the Social Security Agency. The helpline also offers help filling out claim forms over the phone when you are applying for Disability Living Allowance and Attendance Allowance. The Benefit Enquiry Line is open 8.30 am to 6.30 pm Monday to Friday and 9.00 am to 1.00 pm Saturday.

In England, Wales and Scotland, you can contact the Benefits Enquiry Line on 0800 88 22 00 or textphone: 0800 24 33 55. In Northern Ireland, phone 0800 220674. You can also use the RNID Typetalk service.

Citizens Advice are an advice organisation which has offices throughout the UK providing free face-to-face advice on legal and money problems, including debt and benefits.  You can use their website to find your nearest bureau. 

Community Legal Advice is a service paid for by legal aid available to people in England and Wales. Their helpline and centres offer free general legal advice and can offer further advice and representation to people who qualify for legal aid. You can call their helpline to talk to someone about benefits, tax credits and debt on 0845 345 4 345.

National Debtline provide debt advice in England, Wales and Scotland and also have lots of information on their website, such as sample letters to help you explain your situation to creditors and self help packs and budgeting sheets you can download.