The Government has set up a new scheme to help people who are are at risk of losing their homes due to mortgage arrears.

The Abhaile Scheme aims to ensure that a person in this situation can access free, independent expert financial and legal advice and support. People who need help will be given vouchers so they can afford to get expert advice from financial and legal advisers.

As a part of the Abhaile Scheme they can get assistance in court where needed, have access to solicitors, and get help obtaining legal aid. They can also get financial advice from a dedicated mortgage arrears adviser, a personal insolvency practitioner (PIP), or an accountant.

“The overall objective of the Scheme is to ensure that a person in this situation can access free, independent expert financial and legal advice and support, which will help them to identify and put in place their best option to get back on track. Priority is given to finding solutions which will allow the person to remain in their home, wherever that is a sustainable option. ” source Welfare.ie

If you are interested in participating in the Abhaile Scheme your first port of call is Mabs. They will direct you to on how to proceed. The expert help is provided free under a “voucher” issued by MABS, working  with the Insolvency Service of Ireland, the Legal Aid Board and the professional accountancy bodies.

More information on the Abhaile Scheme can be downloaded here.