Q. I am a single parent to 2 young boys and four years ago I contracted covid. Unfortunately I went on to develop long covid which still impacts my everyday life and prevented me from working for over a year. I am back working on reduced hours for the last 2 years but have fallen behind on my rent and credit union loan repayments. How do I get on top of things? The worry and stress is beginning to impact my mental health. Thanks for any help. Patricia – Limerick
A. With two young boys Patricia you probably have your hands full at the best of times, but with long covid affecting your health and finances it is no wonder you feel worried and stressed. The first thing I think you need to realise is that you do not have to deal with this alone. There is help out there ! The Insolvency Service of Ireland (ISI) is a government body set up over 10 years ago to help people with all levels of debt and have put in place a regulated network of debt advisors located around the country to provide people with debt advice. The debt advisor, primarily the MABS personnel throughout the country, will look at your situation and advise which solution would best suit you. They will negotiate with your creditors and agree what you can afford to repay over a specified period of time. Those who have been through the process speak of the intense relief they felt when they took that first step and got help. To find out more visit the ISI’s website www.backontrack.ie or call the ISI’s information line at 01 764 4200 or freetext GETHELP to 50015 for a call back. There IS a solution.