Benefit questions on the increase in Bognor Regis.

The total of new issues raised by clients of the help points between April and September this year soared by about 15 per cent.

The figure of 4,301 for the six months this year compared to 3,744 in the same period during 2010.

The surge confirmed the issue as the biggest single category of questions dealt with by the bureau’s centres in Bognor Regis, Littlehampton and Chichester.

This increase reflects the impact of the tough economic conditions on the income of households as they grapple with rising costs, low wages or unemployment.

Among those in need who are helped have been former servicemen and women through a project with the Royal British Legion.

Project manager Jackie Clarke told the bureau’s recent annual meeting: “Debt is, again, on the increase and I see people from all age groups, from young soldiers to 83-year-olds.