If you're finding it hard to manage your money or keep up with loan or debt payments, you're not alone and help is available.
We encourage you to seek advice and support as soon as possible. The sooner you act, the more options you'll have.
A money or debt advisor can help you:
Understand which debts to deal with first
Create a realistic budget designed for you
Apply for grants and direct you to other support
Set up a payment plan and they can also speak to the people you owe money to
You don't have to face it on your own.
For free, confidential, and impartial advice, visit MoneyHelper.org.uk — a government-backed service offering practical guidance on everything from everyday budgeting to dealing with rent arrears and serious debt.
Where to Get Help with Debts
Here are some trusted sources where you can get free or low-cost help:
1. Non-Profit Debt Advice Charities
StepChange – Free debt advice, budgeting tools, and debt management plans. Website: www.stepchange.org
National Debtline – Free, confidential debt advice over the phone and online. Website: www.nationaldebtline.org
Citizens Advice – Offers guidance on managing debt, dealing with bailiffs, and understanding your rights. Website: www.citizensadvice.org.uk
2. Government Services
MoneyHelper (formerly Money Advice Service) – Free and impartial money advice backed by the UK government. Website: www.moneyhelper.org.uk
3. Local Council Services
Many local councils offer free debt advice or can refer you to trusted local support services. Check your local authority’s website or call them for help.
4. Credit Unions
Credit unions often offer more affordable lending options and may provide budgeting and debt advice services. Find a credit union: www.findyourcreditunion.co.uk
5. Mental Health & Debt Support
Mind – Offers advice for those whose mental health is affected by financial stress. Website: www.mind.org.uk
Samaritans – Free emotional support if you're feeling overwhelmed.
Call 116 123 or visit www.samaritans.org
You or someone you know may feel under pressure to borrow money at some point. We strongly advise against this because turning to doorstep lenders and loan sharks can quickly become a serious problem. Loan sharks can offer you cash but demand huge amounts of interest on your repayments, and may threaten you or take other valuable items from you if you don't keep up.
If you find yourself owing money to a loan shark there is help for you out there. ‘Stop Loan Sharks’ is a government agency that can investigate, prosecute and even put them in prison. You can report a loan shark or illegal money lender to ‘Stop Loan Sharks’ in complete confidence – you don’t even have to leave your name.
Call them any time on 0300 555 22 22 or report online at here. Live chat is available on the website 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.
‘Stop Loan Sharks’ has also released a new free smartphone app where you can find confidential advice on how to spot a loan shark, how to access credit unions, and how to access debt advice services. You can also access real-life stories from victims and survivors of illegal money lending. The Stop Loan Sharks app is free to download on both iOS and Android devices on the App Store and Google Play Store.
