In addition to those that have overstretched themselves during the era of cheap credit there are also those that are now suffering redundancy or reduced business/bonuses/commissions. Debt charities and debt management companies are stretched to breaking point by the numbers of people seeking help. This only increases the danger of desperate people falling prey to the many companies that would take advantage of them.



If you need urgent debt help or free debt advice in the UK then there are a number of options available to you:

1. The Citizens Advice Bureau. With offices all over the UK there is sure to be a CAB near you. The advantage of using the CAB for your free debt advise is that they can advise you on other legal issues that you may have. If you decide that you want to set up a Debt Management Plan or IVA then you will have to also employ the services of a debt management company.

2. The Consumer Credit Counseling Service (CCCS). A national debt charity that will guide you through the process of working out your financial situation and then negotiating reduced payments with your creditors. One of the most respected charitable organizations giving debt advice.

3. A debt management company. Pick one that does not charge up-front fees and is able to offer both debt management plans and IVAs. The Payplan Partnership is a very respected company that is a good first choice (although there are others).

4. A solicitor. Most solicitors will give you a free consultation. This might be useful if you have a very complicated debt problem, e.g. one involving business partners, but otherwise this is the least useful option. You will very quickly find yourself having to pay for your solicitors advice and they can only advise you on the letter of the law rather than current practice in the debt relief industry. They will very likely have little experience of simple consumer debt problems and will not be able to negotiate with your creditors.

If you are told that you will have to go on a waiting list before being seen, then make sure the person you are talking to understands exactly what your situation is. Most organizations will be able to put you on a priority list if your situation is very serious (bailiffs calling at your home or you are about to lose your home). It is important to realize that if you are being bothered by debt collectors that his in itself will not be considered an urgent problem by the debt advice organization. My advice is to hold on for free advice and help that you need to deal with your debt problems. If your chosen or debt management company has a 3 month waiting list to see a money adviser then get on the list and wait. At least you will have started the journey towards being debt free.

Most importantly remember that being unable to pay your debts is not a crime in the eyes of the law. Don't be too hard on yourself. Try and relax a bit (I know this is hard) and believe that there is a life after debt. I'm living proof of it! If you can keep calm you are much more able to take the right (sometimes difficult) decisions that will resolve your debt problem. Do not be tempted to select a little-known debt management company just because your first choice cannot see you immediately. There are some disreputable companies working in this field that would make your situation a lot worse.