ONE in five people in the West Midlands are too ashamed to ask for help with their money problems.

The survey by Action for Children also showed that one in five parents did not know where to go to het help and one in 10 didn't want to think about their money problems.

Brigitte Gater, interim director of children’s services at Action for Children, said there was no shame in asking for help during this economic climate.

She said: “At a time when the cost of living and raising children continues to grow faster than wages, it’s seriously worrying that people are put off seeking financial advice or simply sweeping problems under the carpet.

“Action for Children provides advice on managing money through our children’s centres. We know that money problems can be linked to other issues, like unemployment, changes in benefits or escaping domestic violence, but we can support families. There’s no shame in asking for help.”

At the centre in Prices Lane, in Upton-upon-Severn, families can attend money management courses to help.

Sue Rogers, children’s services manager at the Upton centre, said: “The rising cost of living is affecting all families - we’re seeing a real problem emerge.

"The majority of families we support tell us of some form of financial constriction, our food bank has never been in such demand and we get daily calls from families who can’t afford essentials heating or food or nappies."

For more information, visit actionforchildren.org.uk.