MANY people in north Wiltshire are not seeking help for basic problems, according to the Citizens' Advice Bureau.

North Wiltshire CAB raised the concern following the results of a survey showing up to 6.5 million people across England and Wales had problems that went unresolved last year because they did not seek advice.

Most of the difficulties encountered involved getting benefits and expressing dissatisfaction with goods and services. But only six in ten of those with a problem tried to get any assistance and often it was the people on lowest incomes who were left without help.

North Wiltshire CAB dealt with 24,181 inquiries in 2003/04, including access to benefits, consumer and debt problems, housing employment, legal worries and relationships.

Sheila Venn, deputy bureau manager, said: "This research shows there is considerable need across the population for basic advice on common life problems."

She urged anyone with a problem to contact the CAB on 0845 1203707.