According to the watchdog that is 70 more requests than last year, which indicates families’ situations have not improved. Deco also said that, as in 2014 and 2015, families’ financial situations are still fragile and prevent them from making progress in balancing the books. Of the more than 17,000 requests for help in overcoming debt, the watchdog is assisting 1,235 families that do have the potential to try and resolve their situations.