WITH the mad rush in preparation for the festive season a distant memory, minds may be turning to finances as the cost of Christmas is counted up. Rosalind Saul looks at how people can get help.

AT this time of year many people fear they could be skating on thin ice as they risk finishing off the year buried in debt.

However, help is on hand in Bolton.

Bolton’s branch of charity Christians Against Poverty (CAP) is among those encouraging people to seek help with their troubled finances.

Diane Ball, Bolton North centre manager, believes financial tensions will not ease this year as the Government continues to ask the local authorities to make budget cuts.

She said: "Benefit cuts are going to push more people into really desperate times.

"Working families will be pushed harder into dept as they have to carry on paying rent and electricity and the like.

"In February, particularly the first Monday, the head office have to make sure all the lines are manned as people suddenly realise the bills are coming in and they are just not going to be able to keep up with the payments.

"Some people do feel ashamed but there is no need to be, it is better to face up to the facts and seek help.

"Going forward, problems will be getting worse not better so you have got to get help soon and it will help lighten the load."

Going into the New Year Bolton's CAP is offering help with money courses aimed at helping people manage their finances with the first course taking place on Monday, January 25, at St Peter's Parish Centre in Church Road.

To find out more about CAP centre and courses contact CAP helpline on 0800 328 0006.

Other bodies around the town are also on hand to help out including Bolton's branch of the Citizen's Advice Bureau and Bolton at Home, which offers a money advice service.

The Financial Ombudsman Service, which resolves disputes between consumers and firms, has compiled a number of tips to help people during the festive season.

They include:

PLANNING: "It pays to spend a few minutes jotting down your outgoings to make a realistic budget. The figures may look daunting in black and white - but doing this should help you manage your finances effectively.

"Having a list of what you need to buy could also make it easier to make the most of special offers and stop you going overboard by buying last-minute "bargains" you don't really need."

PIPES: "Watch out for frozen pipes as it gets colder. If you notice a leak or any damage, let your building and contents insurer know straight away."

PAYDAY LENDERS: "The promise of some quick and easy cash might seem like the ideal solution - but take care when signing up for any loan, and make sure you can afford to pay it back."

SAVING: "It might seem a bit early to think about saving for the year ahead, but putting away regular amounts each month could take the sting out of next year's shopping bill.

"An ISA, with its tax advantages, could help you to do this, but check with the provider how long any headline-grabbing interest rate will last."

REPAYING: "Make sure you know when any interest-free period ends as interest rates can be high if you miss the deadline."

BANKS: "If you're having trouble meeting your financial obligations, facing the problem head-on can help sort the situation out. Contact your bank or lender straight away - they may be able to help."

HOLIDAYS: "If you're heading to the slopes or to the beach this festive season, don't forget travel insurance. Check what the policy does and doesn't cover, such as winter sports."

FREE HELP: "If you get stuck with a financial problem and you cannot come to an agreement with a financial firm, the Financial Ombudsman Service can help on 0800 0234 567 or by tweeting @financialombuds"