A DEBT relief centre is being set up in Farnworth to help people in financial crisis.

The service, which will operate in the same building as the Farnworth and Kearsley Foodbank, will open for the first time on Tuesday.

Called the Well Debt Relief Centre, it will be run by Farnworth Baptist Church and the Christian Debt Line, and is the latest attempt to fight growing poverty in Farnworth.

Food bank project manager Alex Malone said: “We have been working with the Christian Debt Line for a while but we wanted to provide a more personal service with face-to-face counselling.

“We’re always looking at ways to help reduce poverty in the area and this is one of them.

“Appointments will be given on a first come first served basis but we would recommend it to anyone who is facing debt problems.”

The Well Debt Relief Centre will be run by professional debt advisers and will operate as a weekly service every Tuesday, but clients must book an appointment.

Cllr Noel Spencer said the new service would be a valuable addition to Farnworth.

He said: “There has always been advice available but it’s good that people will have additional support.

“We are going through a recession and people are being affected with things like rent increases and bedroom tax.

“Some people are really struggling and taking measures that are detrimental to their finances. Any help that can be provided for them is always welcome.”

Call 01204 861671 to book an appointment at the Well Debt Relief Centre.

Appointments will be on a Tuesday, at 10am, 12pm or 2pm and are held at The Well cafe in Trafford Street, Farnworth. For urgent advice, call Christian Debt Line on 0800 0199927.

Bolton at Home and credit union Hoot also offer debt and money advice.

Bolton at Home’s debt and money advice team provides free and confidential support to help tenants reduce bills, manage budgets, tackle debts and seek other benefits or payments.

Tenants can phone 01204 335395 or e-mail debtandmoney adviceservice@boltonathome.

org.uk.