I am a single parent, with two young children. I am already struggling to stay on top of my household bills; my weekly food shop isn’t stretching as far anymore and now my energy bill is going up too. I don’t know how I’m going to afford all of these price rises. What can I do to stop my finances spiralling out of control?

First of all, it’s always worth checking if there are benefits you don’t know about that you’re eligible for, including support with your energy costs and living costs. On the Citizens Advice website there’s a benefits calculator, advice on how to reduce living costs and information on other ways to increase your income.

If you’re struggling to stay on top of bills, it’s really important to understand what money you have coming in and going out each month. Citizens Advice has a budgeting tool on its website that can help with this.

And if you’re already behind on bills, prioritise paying your rent or mortgage, plus energy bills and Council Tax first. Not paying these bills has the most serious consequences. You should speak to the person or company you owe money to, to see if they can help you repay your bills in a manageable way.

Watford Observer: New local Citizens Advice Debt Helpline: 01274 758047

We know that times are incredibly tough but remember you don’t have to face this alone. There is emergency support that you may have access to, including food bank vouchers or fuel vouchers.

If you are in urgent need of a food voucher, call the Citizens Advice Watford dedicated food voucher line: 0800 061 4808.

If you need help with managing your money or bills, call the Citizens Advice Watford Adviceline on 0800 144 8848, or visit their drop-in service on Monday to Thursday, 9.30am to 12.30pm.