HELP is out there for people struggling to keep up with their mortgage repayments.

Exeter Citizens' Advice Bureau offers guidance for those facing financial problems via its advice and information line on 0844 499 4101 and online at www.adviceguide.org.uk. The CAB can be found at Wat Tyler House in King William Street.

A mortgage arrears advice service set up by Exeter City Council and local charity Homemaker Southwest offers free independent and confidential advice to homeowners about their options, ideally before the mortgage lender has begun repossession proceedings. The helpline number is 01392 686756.

The Community Legal Advice helpline - on 0845 345 4345 - helps people with debt and housing problems. If callers to the helpline do not qualify for legal aid, they will be directed to other sources of help and advice.

Shelter, the housing and homelessness charity, provides help for those facing repossession, and can be contacted on 0808 800 4444.

The Consumer Credit Counselling Service - on 0800 138 1111 - is a charity offering free, confidential advice and support to anyone worried about debt.

The National Debtline can be contacted on 0808 808 4000.