New figures have revealed an 11 per cent jump in the numbers of families facing having their homes repossessed in Northern Ireland, a leading advice group has warned.
However, the organisation warned that many people make the mistake of failing to turn up for court hearings that rule on their cases.
The Housing Rights Service also urged anyone facing difficulties to contact their mortgage lender and make use of the free advice available on their financial options.
Figures released by the Northern Ireland Court Service showed that January to March this year saw 856 writs and originating summonses issued in relation to repossessions.
This represented an 11 per cent increase in the number of mortgage cases compared to the 773 writs issued for the first quarter in 2010) and a 51 per cent increase over the last five years.
Ursula Toner, of Housing Rights Service, responding to the figures, said: “As we provide emergency court representation for homeowners facing repossession we know first-hand that many people don’t attend their hearings.
“This could be for a variety of reasons. They may believe all is lost, they may think that they will be in an open court, they may be unable to afford legal representation.
“However our experience is that attending repossession hearings can greatly increase the chances of saving the home.
“There are alternatives to repossession available to the courts and attending can make a real difference.”
Of the 822 orders made in cases relating to mortgages in the first three months of this year, 65.9 per cent resulted in people losing their properties, but in 28.7 per cent possession decisions were suspended to allow mortgage holders time to repay debts.
Ms Toner added: “Repossession can happen to anyone, in the last three months Housing Right Service has seen a 30 per cent increase in homeowners seeking assistance with mortgage debt compared with the same time last year.
“Our message today is for people experiencing difficulties to contact their lenders and get free independent advice soon as possible.
“The earlier contact is made the more possibilities are available.
“However even at court there are options, so it is vital that people attend their hearings. It really is never too late to get help," she added.
