THERE has been a lot of coverage recently on the economic downturn and the number of people losing their homes and I wanted to remind readers that free help is available if you find yourself facing repossession.

The Legal Services Commission funds emergency help schemes for people attending repossession hearings at court.

These schemes, one of which is based in Derby County Court, provide free, immediate legal advice and representation to individuals who are at risk of losing their home.

Surprisingly, recent statistics show that mortgage repossessions for Derby for the first quarter of 2009 have decreased by 47% compared to the figures for the same period in 2008. But there are still people out there who need our help.

The Legal Services Commission, the government body responsible for legal aid, funds these schemes so that anyone in danger of eviction, or having property repossessed, can obtain free legal advice and representation on the day of the hearing, regardless of their financial circumstances.

These fantastic schemes can help people but the more time an adviser has to prepare, the better the chance people have of keeping their homes. Therefore, getting early advice is still the best advice.

If people have housing or money problems they should try and get early advice from a qualified source.

Our Community Legal Advice helpline, 0845 345 4 345, can either give advice over the phone, or point callers in the right direction. The helpline provides independent advice about debt, education, benefits and tax credits, employment and housing problems to people who live on a low income or benefits.

Steve Templeman,

Area Relationship Manager,

Legal Services Commission.