More than 300 residents in West Oxfordshire have sought assistance through a Debt Relief Order in the past decade.

The statistics, highlighted by National Debtline, suggest more individuals will soon become eligible for Debt Relief Orders due to changes this month.

The orders offer a lifeline for individuals with low income and minimal assets, allowing unmanageable debts to be written off after 12 months.

The number of West Oxfordshire residents applying for Debt Relief Orders in the last 10 years totals 302.

This month brings key changes to the orders' structure, with the longstanding £90 application fee set to be removed from April 6.

As of June 28, the maximum level of permissible debt will increase from £30,000 to £50,000.

National Debtline says these alterations will enable more people to consider Debt Relief Orders in the future.

Separate data from the Money and Pensions Service suggests 11 per cent of West Oxfordshire residents require immediate debt advice.

National Debtline offers free, independent debt advice over the phone and online, and can also assist eligible individuals with Debt Relief Order registrations.

Steve Vaid, chief executive of the Money Advice Trust, the charity behind National Debtline, said: "Millions of people are feeling the impact of the cost of living crisis, and for many the effects have left deep financial scars.

"Our message to anyone worried about their finances is to seek free advice from National Debtline as soon as possible."