January is the usually the month when you understand just how much Christmas has cost you. If you’ve a hefty credit card bill heading your way here are a few helpful ways you can cushion the blow.

The first step is to work out how much you owe. If you’ve got more going out than you have coming in, you should work out how much you can afford to pay.

Our online budget calculator is a tool to help you review your incomings and outgoings with the aim of getting financially fit – https://www.policemutual.co.uk/calculators-and-tools/budget-calculator/

Cut back and make savings where you can. Consider whether you can do without the television subscriptions for a month or two. Shop around for better deals on your utilities too. There are almost always savings to be made by switching energy or broadband suppliers – and there are several websites that make it very easy to switch.

The one thing you should absolutely not do is ignore any debts you may have. It’s better to face the problem head on than spend each day worrying about it. Know that help is out there if you need it.

We’ve teamed up with PayPlan, one of the UK’s leading free debt advice providers, who offer free and confidential advice to anyone in serious financial difficulties. They’re able to advise you on a range of debt solutions suited to your individual circumstances, helping to protect you and your family with a sustainable way to manage your debt. Get free and confidential help to combat your debt - https://www.policemutual.co.uk/why-us/for-you/managing-debt/

If your health and wellbeing is beginning to suffer as a result of your debt, you can also call our Care Line (provided by Health Assured) to talk to a trained counsellor who will seek to understand your needs and provide a tailored support plan. The service is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and is available exclusively to serving and retired Police Officers, Police Staff and family members - https://www.policemutual.co.uk/why-us/for-you/care-line/