A total of 6,168 people affected by the economic crisis have sought help through two 24-hour financial crisis emotional support hotlines between October 13 and March 26.

Social workers will follow up 1,433 cases and continue to provide support and counselling services to help them, the Social Welfare Department says. Callers complained of unemployment, financial difficulties, investment failure or family problems.

Since October, the department has allocated HK$2.17 million for the Cease Crisis Centre and the Caritas Family Crisis Support Centre to run the two hotlines and help those with emotional and family problems amid the financial crisis. 'The 24-hour hotlines allows people in need to relieve their stress and get help and advice to reduce conflict at home,' Pang Kit-ling, the department's chief social work officer, said.