NI debt problems 'at record high'

The number of people facing problems with debt in Northern Ireland is still at a record high, according to the Citizens Advice Bureau.

Its money advice service helped more than 1,000 people and handled £12m of debt between April and September.

Spokesman Scott Kennerley said the figures "show the extent of the debt problem in Northern Ireland".

He said the biggest areas of concern were mortgage arrears, secured loans, credit cards and small business debts.

"It is not showing any sign of slowing down as we approach our busiest time of the year after the Christmas period," he said.

The charity's free 'Dealing with Debt' service is funded by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Industry.