Employers 'must help freelance contractors with money problems'

Date: May 25, 2010

Category: Finance for Contractors

Bosses have been urged to help professional contractors and other staff who are facing money difficulties.

Debt charity Consumer Credit Counselling Service (CCCS) said personal debt in the UK is growing and that employers are in a good position to help those struggling with finances.

It calls on firms to encourage anyone with money issues to seek help immediately, as quick action means more can be done to help.

"This doesn't have to mean speaking to employees individually as those with debt problems are likely to feel very private about their finances and may not reveal that they have a problem, while suggesting staff have a debt problem could be intrusive," explained Delroy Corinaldi, external affairs director at CCCS.

He suggested employers could provide information on staff notice boards and newsletters, directing them to free debt advice and support.

The CCCS telephone helpline and web service received nearly 500,000 enquiries last year.

Posted by John Crawley