Struggling homeowners will shortly be able to turn for help and advice to one of 27 special Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) outlets and will also be able to consult with court “mentors” during hearings.

EMERGENCY welfare payments have ballooned to a cost of €100 million for the first six months of this year, as more people than ever look for extra help to survive.

DEBT advice and poverty assistance services are reporting surges in the number of people with financial difficulties seeking help.