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Title: |
The impact of debt advice as a response to financial difficulties in Ireland. |
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Reference: |
Social Policy and Society, 11(1), January 2012, pp.93-104. |
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ISSN paper: |
1474-7464 |
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ISSN online: |
1475-3073 |
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Abstract: |
‘Debt advice’ has become a widely used policy tool for dealing with over-indebtedness in many European countries. In Ireland, a money advice model has evolved whereby central government funds a network of 53 Money Advice and Budgeting Services (MABS). The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of MABS’ one-to-one debt advice on the target group of low-income households. Secondary data analysis was carried out of nationally representative household panel surveys and of administrative data collated by MABS services throughout 2006. In addition, interviews were held with 36 MABS clients. The findings suggest that the overall impact of ‘person-centred’ debt advice is to alleviate the immediate crisis rather than resolve personal over-indebtedness and its effects among the low-income group. The clients have significantly fewer resources and options than the population at large. The cause of their debt problems are usually externally triggered, such as unemployment or ill-health, rather than due to poor money management. Therefore the government's objective that it should facilitate financial independence is unrealistic. For such debt advice to be effective, complimentary legal and institutional solutions which give the opportunity to resolve debt issues are required. |
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article; |
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www.scie-socialcareonline.org.uk/profile.asp?guid=c1d3340f-f6b3-4a14-a07a-be86da2c414b |
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