HOUSEHOLDS struggling to keep up with their bills are being urged by Shelter to seek early advice to avoid putting their home at risk.

Research conducted by the homelessness charity has shown that one in five households in south east England are struggling to keep up with rent or mortgage payments, a number which has risen sharply since this time last year.

The charity warns that as austerity measures continue to bite this year more people already feeling the squeeze could be forced into homelessness.

For advice or more information visit shelter.org.uk.