A DEBT service is warning that huge numbers of people could be facing a financial cliff edge when the government suspension on evictions ends this month.

Rules put in place to protect renters during the coronavirus pandemic are set to end on August 23.

Michelle Stobart, head of money advice at Citizens Advice Darlington says she expects to see the start of evictions, bailiff action and other methods of enforcement and is urging any one in financial difficulties to seek help.

She said: “During the coronavirus pandemic, we have continued to see a significant demand for our services.

"This has been due to furlough, redundancies and reduced employment hours affecting household incomes.

"When the current Government protection ends, we want to ensure that the community have the necessary support to face the situation head on.”

Darlington Citizens Advice has accredited specialist money advisors who can help people organise their debts, look at alternative support, and negotiate affordable repayments with their landlord or creditors.

Dawn Gill, advice services manager, said: “The message is simple – don’t bury your head in the sand, deal with the situation now to prevent the loss of your home or belongings. We are here to help.”

The government introduced laws to prevent people from being evicted in March, at the start of the pandemic.

When they end on August 23, further changes are being made to try and protect vulnerable renters.

Ministers have been working with the judiciary, legal representatives and the advice sector on arrangements, including new rules, so courts are better able to address the need for appropriate protection of all parties, including those shielding from coronavirus.

A spokesperson for the department of housing, communities and local government said: "Where tenants do experience financial difficulties as a result of the pandemic, the government is clear that landlords and tenants should work together and exhaust all possible options – such as flexible payment plans which take into account a tenant’s individual circumstances – to ensure cases only end up in court as an absolute last resort."

The money team at Citizens Advice Darlington can be contacted by calling 01325 734994 or emailing debtappointment@darlingtoncab.co.uk.

Other forms of supports can be accessed via the free phone number 0800 0487023 or 01325 266888.