Meet Andy

Andy ran two businesses with his wife, but both suffered during the recession. After getting help with credit card debt that built up, Andy helps us reach people in a similar situation.

"I wanted to return the favour and help somebody else who could be in that position to realise there is help out there."

How did your debt problem begin?

"My wife and I own two businesses – a fancy dress shop and a market stall – and I was also working part-time as a sale consultant to make ends meet. But the company I worked for went bankrupt, owing me thousands of pounds."

"The recession affected how well our businesses are doing, and with the drop in income we found ourselves struggling, and using credit cards to cover our living costs each week."

Why did you want to become a media volunteer?

"I had reached a point of not knowing where to turn next, but when I saw an advert on TV and contacted the charity I got the help I needed.

I wanted to return the favour and help somebody else who could be in that position to realise there is help out there."

Was there anything about being a media volunteer that worried you?

"Not really – I was happy right from the start to be put forward. The media team have been good at staying in contact, and it’s never been a problem when I’ve had to turn things down if I’ve been busy at work."

What has your experience been like so far?

"I was called up in the morning to see if I would be available to speak to ITV about interest rates going up, and how that would affect my ability to pay my debts. They came to my house to film that evening, and it appeared on News at Ten."

"I spent about two hours filming, and it was edited down to about two minutes! But that’s the nature of it, and every little bit helps. I’d definitely be happy to do more in the future."