Free help for those threatened with homelessness due to mortgage debt

With Homelessness Awareness Week 2015 in full swing, local charity Housing Rights is urging people not to put off dealing with mortgage debt and to get free independent advice as early as possible.

Peter McMahon, Advice Services Manager with Housing Rights said: “There are many different aspects of homelessness, and housing debt is a common problem facing many people across Northern Ireland.  We would urge anyone worried about their mortgage payments or Court action to get help early. Losing your home is not inevitable, so don’t struggle alone contact us now for free independent advice.”

Housing Rights offer a dedicated mortgage debt advice service on behalf of the Department for Social Development.  Last year the service assisted over 1600 households.

House prices in Northern Ireland remain 50% below their 2007 peak and there are high levels of negative equity.  In addition many local households who are just making ends meet are highly sensitive to any changes in interest rates or reduced availability of work.

Mr McMahon continued: “There have been a number of redundancy announcements in recent weeks. We want to let people who may be worried about losing their homes know that help is available.”

People worried about mortgage or other loan secured on their home can contact Housing Rights on 0300 32 30 310. Online advice is also available at www.housingadviceni.org

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