Sir, – Although many children may have enjoyed the Spring time weather during the half term holiday, for many parents the break is not always so carefree.

It can be a stressful time, often involving hefty childcare bills.

Parents in Britain pay one of the highest childcare costs in Europe. On average, parents in the Darlington and Stockton area will have paid around £89.89 per child, every week for full-time childcare over the holiday period.

Overall cost for holiday childcare in the North-East rose by over 21 per cent in 2008 compared to the previous year. If parents do find they have overspent and are worried about making bill repayments, the first step is to seek advice early.

Struggling to repay debts and keep up with payments can lead to disconnection of your gas or electricity, or even eviction.

The Legal Services Commission (LSC) funds a number of high-quality advice providers in and around the area. We try to target the people who need legal advice most. Our work helps some of the most vulnerable people in society, and is fundamental to social and legal justice.

Parents who are worried about debt are encouraged to contact Community Legal Advice on 0845-3454345 or www.communitylegaladvice.org.uk to find a local advice provider.

The website provides a free debt diagnosis tool and stepby- step guide to getting information and advice on legal aid before a problem becomes a crisis.

Advice is available from 9am- 6.30pm, Monday to Friday, and has recently been extended to include Saturdays from 9am to 12.30pm.

DEBORAH CHALLIS Legal Services Commission contracts manager for the North-East.