It was during a particularly tough month that I first heard about charities helping with debt. Bills were piling up, and the stress of figuring out how to make ends meet was overwhelming. Then, a friend mentioned that there were organizations out there offering free advice, financial assistance, and even grants to help manage debt. That was a game-changer. Debt can feel like a never-ending burden, but there are charities dedicated to providing support, advice, and sometimes even financial relief to help people regain control of their finances.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through some of the key charities that help with debt and how they can assist you or someone you know in getting back on track.
1. StepChange Debt Charity
One of the best-known charities for debt advice, StepChange provides free, confidential advice and offers various solutions to help people get out of debt. Whether you’re dealing with credit card debt, unpaid bills, or loans, they can help develop a personalized plan.
Services Offered:
- Debt Management Plans (DMPs): StepChange works with creditors on your behalf to reduce payments to a manageable amount.
- Debt Relief Orders (DROs): For individuals with low income and assets, a DRO could help by writing off debts after 12 months if conditions are met.
- Free Debt Advice: StepChange provides free debt advice either through their website or over the phone.
How to Access:
- Visit their website to use their online debt advice tool, or call for advice to start working on a solution immediately.
2. National Debtline
National Debtline is a UK-based charity offering free, impartial advice on how to manage and clear debt. What I found particularly useful was their wealth of online resources, from budgeting tools to fact sheets on how to deal with debt collectors.
Services Offered:
- Personalized Debt Advice: Tailored advice specific to your debt situation.
- Self-Help Pack: They provide a comprehensive set of resources to help you take control of your debt, from how to create a budget to handling creditors.
- Debt Solutions: Advice on debt solutions like Individual Voluntary Arrangements (IVAs), bankruptcy, or debt management plans.
How to Access:
- You can call their free helpline or access their online resources 24/7.
3. Citizens Advice
Citizens Advice is a trusted organization that offers free advice on a wide range of issues, including debt management. I’ve seen how they can be a lifeline for people in financial distress, providing support not just for debt, but also for benefits, employment, and housing concerns—all areas that can be closely linked to financial troubles.
Services Offered:
- Debt Management Advice: Citizens Advice helps you understand your debt, prioritize payments, and look at ways to deal with debt collectors.
- Budgeting Help: They help create a personal budget and explore options like income maximization (finding benefits you may be eligible for).
- Legal Assistance: Support for those facing court action related to their debt, like repossession or eviction.
How to Access:
- Visit a local Citizens Advice office, call their helpline, or use their website to access information.
4. The Salvation Army
Though widely known for their charity work in poverty alleviation, housing, and disaster relief, The Salvation Army also provides assistance with financial hardship and debt. They offer help through budgeting advice, financial counseling, and in some cases, emergency financial aid.
Services Offered:
- Debt Counseling: Some branches offer financial counseling, helping individuals create a budget and manage debt repayments.
- Emergency Assistance: In cases of severe financial hardship, they may provide emergency relief to cover critical expenses like utilities or rent.
- Life Skills Programs: Educational programs that help people develop better financial management skills to prevent future debt.
How to Access:
- Visit their local offices or contact them online to inquire about available services in your area.
5. Christians Against Poverty (CAP)
CAP is a UK-based charity providing free debt counseling and support with a faith-based approach, though their services are open to everyone, regardless of religion. Their holistic support system, which includes one-on-one debt coaching and community support, makes a huge difference for many people.
Services Offered:
- Debt Counseling: CAP helps individuals create a personalized plan to pay off debt and deal with creditors.
- Debt Help Centers: Local CAP Debt Centers provide face-to-face debt counseling services.
- CAP Money Course: This is a budgeting course that helps people better manage their finances moving forward.
How to Access:
- Contact CAP through their website or by calling to be connected with your local CAP Debt Center.
6. Turn2us
Turn2us is a charity that helps people in financial need gain access to welfare benefits, grants, and other financial support services. They’re great for individuals who may be struggling with debt due to sudden changes in income or financial hardship.
Services Offered:
- Grant Search: They help you find grants from various charitable organizations that you may be eligible for.
- Benefits Calculator: A helpful tool to check if you are receiving all the government benefits you’re entitled to.
- Direct Financial Support: In some cases, they may provide direct financial assistance or connect you to charities that do.
How to Access:
- Visit their website to use the benefits calculator and grant search tool, or get in touch via their helpline.
7. The Society of St. Vincent de Paul
Another faith-based organization, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, provides support to individuals and families facing financial challenges, including debt. They offer a range of services aimed at reducing financial stress.
Services Offered:
- Financial Assistance: In cases of extreme financial hardship, they may provide emergency financial aid to help cover essential expenses.
- Budgeting and Debt Advice: Volunteers help individuals develop a sustainable financial plan to manage debt and avoid future financial pitfalls.
How to Access:
- Contact your local St. Vincent de Paul chapter for more information on available services.
8. Community Action Organizations
Many local community action organizations also provide debt relief and financial counseling services. These organizations vary by location, but they often offer services like utility bill assistance, rent help, and debt advice.
Services Offered:
- Debt Counseling and Budgeting: Help with managing debt and creating a sustainable budget.
- Direct Financial Assistance: Emergency aid for utilities, rent, or other essential expenses.
- Job Training and Education: Programs to help individuals improve their financial situation through employment and education.
How to Access:
- Check with your local community action agency to see what services are available in your area.
How to Choose the Right Charity for Debt Help
Not every charity offers the same services, so it’s important to choose one that fits your needs. If you’re looking for personalized debt counseling, charities like StepChange or Christians Against Poverty may be ideal. For emergency financial aid, organizations like The Salvation Army or Turn2us might be more appropriate. Always check eligibility criteria, as some charities may have specific requirements for the help they provide.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with debt can feel isolating, but you’re not alone—charities are here to help. Whether you need advice, budgeting assistance, or even financial relief, there’s an organization out there ready to offer support. Don’t hesitate to reach out and take that first step toward regaining financial control. These charities can provide a lifeline to help you break free from debt and build a brighter, more stable future.