EFFORTS to tackle people's debt problems in Wyre Forest have been boosted by a £50,000 cash injection.

Debt is the biggest problem dealt with by the Citizen's Advice Bureau in Kidderminster and two new members of staff have been drafted in to step up its operations.

The cash - from the Government's Legal Services Commission - has doubled CAB's debt budget and is aimed at slashing waiting lists for the service, which currently stands at four weeks.

Kate Bennett, who manages the New Road centre, said: "The money will increase the amount of hours we can give to help people who have got in over their heads with their finances.

"Waiting for debt advice is not too bad if, for example, you only owe money on your credit card but, if you are facing eviction, then it can't wait. We see a mixture of people across the board - retired people, people in their 80s to people in their first jobs."

The debt problem was particularly serious in Wyre Forest and needed to be addressed, Mrs Bennett added.

"A lot of jobs in Wyre Forest are not particularly well paid. I think the average wage is lower than anywhere else in the county, so we hope we will be able to now offer more help to more people."

The centre sees around 2,500 people with debt problems each year.

A survey carried out last year showed the 74 cases taken on by CAB in a six-month period had run up debt totalling £500,000. Of those people, 27 had a job.

The service will be expanded from June 1. The New Road centre is open from 10am to 4pm, Monday and Thursday, 4pm to 6pm on Tuesday and 10am to 1pm Wednesday and Friday.

Appointments are available in Stourport and Bewdley. For more information 01562 823953.