Spend ten minutes on the Money Advice Service's health check, answer a few simple questions, and you’ll get an easy-to-follow, personalised action plan to make the most of your money now, and to plan for the future. It’s free and unbiased.

Make sure your employer is paying you the National Minimum Wage and/or the National Living Wage.

Make sure you are claiming everything you’re entitled to. Use a benefits calculator to double check.

Come along to one of our Budget Boosting Clubs if you’re struggling to get a job or finding it difficult to make ends meet.

If you can’t pay, speak up as soon as possible. The Citizens Advice website has advice on how to deal with your mortgage lender or landlord.

If you can’t pay your bill, speak to your supplier as soon as possible. There are also some energy grants you may be able to apply for to help make your home more energy efficient and reduce your bills.

Check if you can get a council tax discount or exemption.

Credit unions are a great way to help you manage your money. They are non-profit-making, responsible lenders who offer free, confidential services. Services can include savings schemes, affordable loans and accounts to have your wages, benefits, tax credits, etc, paid in to. They’re as safe as any bank or building society.

• North East Warrington Credit Union: newcu.org.uk
• Warrington Credit Union: warringtoncreditunions.co.uk

Borrowing from an unlicensed lender, or loan shark, can leave you stuck in debt and even put you in physical danger. If you’ve borrowed from one you haven’t broken the law, they have – so please report a loan shark.

‘Payday loans’ are small cash loans, usually under £500, taken over a short time period of time such as 2-3 weeks. There are often extra fees and high interest payments - so even if you borrow a small amount you end up paying a lot back, especially if you miss a payment.

Payday loan websites are blocked in local libraries, leisure, community hubs and Contact Warrington. If you do need to borrow money, speak to your local credit union or search for low interest loans through a bank or building society.