The two leading debt charities, Consumer Credit Counselling Service (CCCS) and Credit Action, are combining talents in order to offer consumers better ways of dealing with debt.

Under the terms of an agreement signed this month, CCCS will run all Credit Action's helplines and counselling services. In return, Credit Action will provide education and training programmes aimed at debt prevention on behalf of both charities.

Announcing the arrangement, Malcolm Hurlston, CCCS chairman said: "This is an important step in joining up money advice, in line with the intentions of the minister, Gerry Sutcliffe. By allowing each to play to its particular strength, both charities can operate more efficiently and help many more people."

Keith Tondeur, Director of Credit Action, added: "The two services are complementary: we are the prevention, CCCS is the cure."

CCCS and Credit Action have been working together on an informal basis for a number of years. Both charities will remain separate entities and Credit Action will retain its own dedicated helpline, manned by CCCS staff at its main centre in Leeds. Credit Action will receive funding which will be used to support its training and education programmes which will be run on behalf of both charities.

-ends-

Notes for editors

1. CCCS helps over 100,000 people a year. Its helplines are open 8am-8pm, Mon to Fri on 0800 138 1111. It helps people with debt problems with self-help packs, with in-depth counselling sessions and with Debt Management Plans. There is no charge for any of its services.

2. Credit Action produces a wide range of money education guides including those for families, students, employees and single parents. It also provides training and support for those in organisations such as companies, Local Authorities, Housing Associations and the Armed Forces who deal with staff and customers that may need help in handling their money.

Credit Action can be contacted on 01223 324034 www.creditaction.com