North Lanarkshire Council is offering practical advice and support to people affected by the collapse of the Farepak Christmas hamper savings company.

Trading Standards officers have received a number of enquiries from people who had been saving with Farepak and have lost their money. Unfortunately if payments were made in cash through an agent, there is little chance that savers will get any of their money back. If payments were made using a credit card, savers can claim that amount back from their cardholder; and if payments were made using a debit card, savers may be able to claim back money through their bank using the ‘chargeback’ procedure.

For more information on how to make these claims, contact the council’s Consumer and Money Advice Centres or local Citizens’ Advice Bureau.

The council’s centres, in Motherwell, Coatbridge and Cumbernauld, can also provide advice and information on all aspects of managing money and debt.

Council Leader Councillor Jim McCabe said:

"I know that a number of councillors, including myself, have been approached by members of the public who have lost money as a result of the collapse of the Farepak company and are looking for help. Many people who were being very responsible in planning for Christmas by saving all year through the scheme, are now very worried because they don’t have the money to buy presents and other items for Christmas.

"It is important that people don’t get themselves into serious debt by spending more money on the things they had planned to buy with the Farepak vouchers. This is an expensive time of year anyway, and I would advise anyone who is worried about how they’ll manage over the festive period, to get in touch with their local Consumer and Money Advice Centre. Our staff specialise in helping people to manage their money and can offer free, independent and friendly advice."

The council’s Consumer and Money Advice Centres are open Monday to Thursday 8.45am to 4.45pm and Friday 8.45am to 4.15pm and are located at:

• 124 Main Street, Coatbridge – 01236 812696
• 79/81 Merry Street, Motherwell – 01698 266513
• Tay Walk, Cumbernauld – 01236 618182