Fighting Debt in the UK

This site has been created purely as a guidance tool to help those struggling with debt. Knowing where to start is very scary and having dealt with debt, this is my page to help you with what I learnt.

I am NOT a legally qualified advisor, nor have I any associations with any debt agencies. Always contact a solicitor and/or the Citizens Advise Bureau if legal advise is needed.

There is a lot of help and guidance available, but finding can be lengthy. When you have demanding letters and phone calls, sometimes a quick response is needed even just to reassure that help is available. I have had help from many sources which I will go into more detail.

First DO NOT PANIC. Easy to say, but when phone calls begin and threatening letters start coming, you need to be ahead of the game. I would never advise to ignore phone call or letter received, but being aware of what's available will help to deal with demands received.

The first stage is to admit you are in debt. As scary as this is, you are most certainly not the first person to get into debt and unfortunately will not be the last. No more throwing away letters or being afraid to answer your phone. This can be the hardest step and to do so means that you're taking responsibility for your debts. It is likely that you have not told family and friends of your situation, but people who care about you would notice that all is not well even if they do not know why. Try to talk to a friend or member of family because although there is a lot of help from websites and helplines, there is nothing better than support from someone who cares about you. This is not easy, but you might be surprised to find people will want to support you.

There are hundreds of debt agencies, some in-house collectors for banks and many independant. Their job is to get you to pay towards your debt. Whilst many do act in a proffessional manner, unfortunately some use unfair & unreasonable tactics to bully and scare you into paying an amount you cannot afford.

Have a look through the site. There is lots of information, like a list of debt agency alternate numbers that are cheaper to call then the 0870 some ask you to use. I have also compiled a list of companies and websites available for further help, a faq sheet for understanding language used and template letters you can send. I hope that you find this site helpful.

Remember, I have also been where you are. You are not alone and the thousands of websites full of information and people asking for help is proof of that. You will eventually get to the stage where you are not too scared to answer a ringing phone or open a letter anymore.