Concern as Wigan residents among those most likely to search for financial help online

Research by CMC Markets, analysing Google Search trends, revealed people in Wigan did 4,049 monthly searches per 100,000 individuals, with a strong emphasis on finding help to cover their bills.

More than three million people across the UK are reliant on high-cost credit, with around 23m adults not believing they will be able to save anything in the next few years.

Angela Fishwick, chief executive of Unify Credit Union, has highlighted the help available to people in Wigan to prevent them using high-cost credit.

Savings accounts and affordable loans are available, with credit unions encouraging people to save money alongside making loan repayments and focusing on the long-term financial well-being of their members.

She said: “With the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, people living in our community are experiencing a real squeeze and are unsure where to turn for help with any extra expenses.

"The concern is that search engines will drive people towards high-cost credit options which will only add to people’s financial strain in the long term. With credit unions you can borrow when you need to and build savings when you can afford to. Taking on further credit may not be the best option.

"If you are struggling, you should visit our website unifycu.org/money-helper where there is lots of information to help you manage your finances, including a budgeting tool.”

Coun Susan Gambles, Wigan Council’s cabinet member for welfare, said: “We know how hard the cost-of-living crisis is hitting our residents, which is why we launched our Here for You campaign last year, which has already provided significant support to a wide number of people across the borough.

“We work closely with a variety of community and voluntary groups and in addition our council teams remain on hand to help, advise and point people in the right direction.

“Through the Here for You campaign, we’ve been encouraging anyone struggling to ask for help as soon as possible – the earlier residents reach out the more options we have available to help through our network of partners.

“We don’t want anyone to face the cost-of-living crisis alone. So please contact our teams as soon as you can by ringing 01942 489002 or you can get more information about cost-of-living advice and support information by visiting our website.”