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Editor’s Note

editor-note

For those who got to have a break at the end of the year, going back to work, school and reality in Jan can be somewhat down heartening. All that fun is soon forgotten, especially when the bills arrive or the collections people start to call. However January is also a time to look ahead and if necessary make plans for change. It is a natural psychological fresh start. This is why so many of us plan to lose weight, make more money, start that business, exercise more and get rid of debt. And the holidays followed by back to school stuff can sure run up those debts super fast. It is no wonder then that the industry has experienced a higher than normal amount of applications for debt review so far this month. One large firm who takes on lots of clients even reported having twice the normal number of applications this month.

Let’s be honest, with all the negative economic factors and increases in prices (and a weakening Rand, interest rates going up etc) it is going to be a very tough year. Those who managed to scrape by in years past are probably going to have to make some big changes this year if they want to even have a chance of being able to afford a roof over their head and food on the table.

Getting financial help through debt review means learning to trust a new person (your Debt Counsellor).  In this month’s issue we discuss who and when to trust and when it is time to complain (and who to complain to).  We also look at new online resources which consumers can use to learn more about dealing with debt and the debt review process.

Recently the Nedbank Debt Review Centre had a change in leadership and we discuss this fresh start as we interview Denise Hartley about her new role. We also consider how you can build a good team spirit at your firm. Daring to go where angles fear to tread, we address the industry ‘elephant in the room’ as we look at the looming situation developing with regard to Payment Distribution Agencies and application of certain requirements of the NCA & Regulations.  All that and other news, advice and stories.

Nothing makes a better fresh start than getting to grips with your financial situation when it has been out of control.  If you have not already done so then maybe now is the time to talk to a Debt Counsellor and take the first steps toward becoming debt free.

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Debtfree DIGI Jan 2016_cover_small[This article taken from the January 2016 Debtfree DIGI – available online soon]