SPIRALLING debt has led Halton Citizens' Advice Bureau to set up a new helpline.

An unprecedented number of cases were dealt with last year and staff fear many families may now face a lifetime of poverty.

"Low income, combined with badly informed and poorly understood financial decisions are at the root of a lot of our clients' debt problems," said Halton CAB chief executive Hitesh Patel.

"In most cases, people are forced into debt when they lose their job or fall ill.

"The reality is that they are condemned to a lifetime of poverty and this can have serious knock on effects on the health and wellbeing of them and their family."

CAB advisors helped families tackle a record £9.4m debt last year. They are anxious to warn people it is never too late to seek advice.

The new 24-hour debtline is 0151-257 2449. Leave a message and staff will call you back.