Nobody can deny that the economic downturn is hitting families hard and it can be difficult for people to know where to turn when they get into difficulty.

This is exactly why the Labour Government is committed to helping people access advice and real help now. I have posted links to the real help website that offers advice to people and businesses about what the Government is doing during the downturn and also who they can contact to get assistance.

The Government understands people’s concerns about the economic downturn and this allows us to identify solutions to protect families and build a stronger and fairer economy for the future.

Women’s experiences of the current downturn may vary compared with men’s because they are more likely to:

• have caring responsibilities;

• work part-time or have other flexible working arrangements;

• be second earners;

• be on a low income or form part of a poor household; and

• head up lone-parent households.

These differences and others mean that women and men will be affected

differently by the economic climate.

If you are a woman who is experiencing difficulties during the downturn I would encourage you to follow the link below to the Government’s guide to real help now for women:

www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_175545

My advice as always is to act sooner rather than later if you are having any difficulties. The Real Help Now guides are a great resource but if you have any concerns please do not hesitate to contact me.