The Money Advice and Budgeting Service is a free, confidential and independent service for the people in Ireland with debt and money management problems. It is made up of a network of local services around the country that address the problems of moneylending and overindebtedness. The service has 52 offices staffed by money advisers who are trained primarily to help people deal with their debts and and regain control of their finances. The Department of Social and Family Affairs provides funding for the service.
The Money Advice and Budgeting Service specifically assists families who have low incomes or are dependent on social welfare. The service emphasizes practical, budget-based measures designed to remove people permanently from dependence on moneylenders. It also helps in opening up an alternative source of low cost credit through local credit unions. Credit unions operate a special accounts system that enable the service’s clients to repay debts and save small amounts.
The Money Advice and Budgeting Service also play an important role in educating their clients about essential practical budgeting skills and money management so that they can meet daily expenses and repay debt. In addition, the service raises awareness of debt issues in the local community through forums, both in schools and with community groups.