OXFORD East MP Anneliese Dodds has backed Citizens Advice Oxford’s campaign to stop residents getting mired in debt despite temptations from Black Friday this week followed by Christmas.

The charity is encouraging people to think carefully about how they will spend before they start their Christmas shopping, while Black Friday, when retailers traditionally bring in deals ahead of the festive period, could also prove too much for some eager spenders.

Ms Dodds backed Oxford Citizens Advice by encouraging people to think twice about what they will spend over the next few weeks – ensuring it does not lead to a red New Year.

She said: “The approach of Christmas can be a stressful time, and with such a long period of constrained growth in wages, many people in Oxford are already feeling the pinch like never before.

“But there is help out there, with lots of resources available to help people with planning their budgets in the run-up to Christmas.

“It's good to see Citizens Advice Oxford making sure that people have access to this information and advice.”

Citizens Advice Oxford said the start of the year typically saw more people seeking its help for debt issues.

Its advisors saw 203 city residents with money issues in January and February, compared to 172 over an average two-month period.

Chief executive Al Bell said: “People’s situations change unexpectedly. We know that what was once an affordable debt can become unmanageable with change in circumstances, like losing a job or sudden ill health.

“If you find yourself in that situation, get in touch with us now for our free and impartial advice.

“With early help, you can avoid financial meltdown. There's no debt problem that can't be solved, if you make a plan and stick to it. Citizens Advice has online information, or our advisors will work with individuals to find fair and affordable solutions.

“And when people are thinking about Christmas shopping, remember that a Black Friday offer might not really be a bargain. How does the price compare to last year or last month? Would it be cheaper with another retailer?”

Last week electronics giant Amazon tempted buyers with scores of cut-price goods in the run up to Black Friday and the start of the Christmas present buying season.

As a further draw for some, some stores' Black Friday deals will not just last for one day but run over next weekend.

If you need any help from Citizens Advice Oxford, advisors can be contacted at their office on St Aldates between 10am and 4pm on weekdays or by calling 03444 111 444.

For more advice, there is other help available online at http://www.caox.org.uk/stay-out-of-debt, and at https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/debt-and-money/help-with-debt/get-help-with-your-debts/get-help-with-your-debts/