Dealing with debt can feel overwhelming, but thankfully, there are numerous organisations dedicated to providing free and confidential help. If you are struggling with debt, remember you are not alone, and these organisations are here to guide you towards financial stability and peace of mind. We have listed a few below that we think may be useful.
Money Advice Scotland (MAS) stands as the national umbrella body for money advice in Scotland. It plays a crucial role in ensuring that people across the country have access to free, impartial, and confidential advice on all things financial. From managing debt to understanding benefits and budgeting effectively. They act as a crucial link, connecting frontline advisors with the resources, knowledge, and support they need to effectively help individuals manage their finances and overcome debt challenges.
Tel: 0808 196 2316 www.moneyadvicescotland.org.uk
StepChange are a UK-wide charity offering personalised debt management plans and expert guidance on budgeting and managing finances. StepChange provide free and impartial debt advice to individuals struggling with financial difficulties. They offer a range of services, including online debt advice, telephone consultations, and face-to-face appointments, tailored to each individual’s unique circumstances. Unlike some commercial debt management companies, StepChange operates as a charity, meaning its primary focus is on helping its clients rather than generating profit.
Tel: 0800 138 1111 www.stepchange.org
Citizens Advice Scotland provides free, independent advice on a wide range of issues, including debt, benefits, employment, housing, discrimination, and legal matters. Overall, Citizens Advice is a vital resource for people across the UK, to help people navigate life’s challenges and advocate for positive change.
Tel: 0800 028 1456 www.cas.org.uk
Scottish DebtLine offers free support and advice over the phone, also providing online tools to help individuals understand their situation. Importantly, acknowledging that debt can impact mental well-being. This service goes beyond simply providing information; trained advisors work with clients to understand their unique circumstances, exploring potential solutions and guiding them through various debt management options. These options can range from budget planning and negotiation with creditors to helping vulnerable individuals navigate formal debt solutions like Trust Deeds or the Debt Arrangement Scheme. The Scottish Debt Line not only aims to alleviate the immediate pressure of debt but also empowers individuals with the knowledge and tools to build a more stable financial future.
Tel: 0808 808 4000 www.nationaldebtline.org/scotland
MIND, a prominent mental health charity in the UK, plays a vital role in supporting individuals experiencing mental health challenges. They operate with a mission to ensure that everyone experiencing a mental health issue receives the support and respect they deserve. MIND recognises the significant impact that financial difficulties can have on a person’s well-being. They provide resources and support specifically designed to help individuals struggling with both debt and their mental health. This often involves directing people towards specialised debt advice services, offering guidance on budgeting, managing money, and providing crucial emotional support throughout the process.
Tel: 0300 123 3393 www.mind.org.uk
SAMH (Scottish Association for Mental Health) offer crucial mental health support alongside practical debt advice, ensuring a holistic approach to recovery. The stress and anxiety associated with mounting debt can exacerbate existing mental health conditions or even trigger new ones. Therefore, SAMH offers support to help individuals navigate these challenging situations. Through their various services, SAMH may provide guidance and practical help in accessing debt advice, understanding financial options, and developing coping strategies to manage the emotional toll that debt can take.
Tel: 0344 800 0550 www.samh.org.uk