A SMALL team are making big waves by tackling Bolton's "hidden debt".

The Salvation Army’s free debt advice service, offers free impartial advice without discrimination to all people looking for ways to get out of their debt problems.

Captain Janice Lahouel, church leader of Bolton South Salvation Army, and debt advice co-ordinator Helene Callan say the team is busy but want more people to be aware of the work they do.

Capt Lahouel said: “We want more people to know the service is here. We’re incredibly busy but we’re a very flexible service, we will always find time to see anyone. For every client we help, we know there are at least ten more people out there who are also in need.

“There’s a lot of hidden debt in Bolton. People get into debt for a variety of reasons, some are working, others are not. Sometimes it is because situations have changed, they may have suffered a relationship breakdown; some people have had to give up work to care for someone or through ill-health. On the surface they might look OK but in reality they’re only just managing every month."

The group is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and will contact creditors on their clients’ behalf to ask for all further action to be stopped while they build up a picture of the situation.

Demand for the service has grown significantly, so the church is looking for volunteers. For more information, visit the Bolton South Salvation Army building, in Aldred Street, email boltonsouthdas@salvationarmy.org.uk or telephone 01204 282075.