Where to get help with debts
A local Shelter advice centre or Citizens Advice could help if you're worried about debt. You can also get debt or money advice over the phone or online.
How a debt adviser can help
A specialist debt adviser could help you to:
claim benefits
manage your money
prioritise your debts
draw up a financial statement
negotiate with lenders and other creditors
Face-to-face debt advice
Most Shelter advice centres offer debt advice as well as housing advice.
Shelter may be able to help you with debt problems including:
rent arrears
mortgage arrears
utility bill debts – gas, electricity and water
debt collection companies or creditors
hire purchase, credit card or loan arrears
You can also get face-to-face debt advice from Citizens Advice.
Home visits
Christians Against Poverty (CAP) can provide debt advice in your own home.
Legal advice if your home is at risk
You could qualify for legal aid (free legal advice and representation) if your home is at risk because of rent or mortgage arrears and you're on a low income.
Civil Legal Advice provide phone advice and may refer you to a solicitor for further help.
National helplines
A number of charities offer free phone advice for debt problems:
They also have lots of online information, self-help tools and a webchat service.
Online help
Online tools and advice can help you with budgeting and dealing with your debts.
Use StepChange's online tool for:
debt advice
budgeting help
help if you're finances have been affected by Coronavirus
It's a good place to start if you're not sure what kind of help you need.
You can also work out a budget using:
Last updated: 3 September 2018
