Letter from Lisa Maxwell (From Swindon Advertiser)

Letter from Lisa Maxwell

3:05pm Thursday 9th July 2009 in

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* DON’T be too embarrassed about financial problems - get some help.

A new study out last week revealed that many of us Brits are too embarrassed to ask for help with our money problems and that thousands of us aren't accessing the financial support we could be entitled to.

I've been very lucky in my life, but I know what it's like to be short of money. I grew up on a housing estate in a depressed part of London and although we were by no means the hardest up, my family often struggled to make ends meet.

I am proud of my working class roots but I have not been too proud to ask for help if I have needed it. I know a lot of people who are struggling in the current recession, as so many are at the moment, but it is unacceptable for anyone to be living in poverty when there is help out there.

That's why I'm supporting a new campaign from the charity Turn2us, which was founded and is funded by Elizabeth Finn Care. If you're struggling to make ends meet, they can help you find out if you're eligible for any benefits or grants. Its comprehensive website www.turn2us.org.uk has all the information you need all in one central place.

Millions of pounds in state benefits and charity funding are left unclaimed each and every year. Don't let the embarrassment factor stop you from getting the support you might be due.

LISA MAXWELL Actress and TV Presenter