Free UK Debt Help & Advice
If you're struggling with credit card, loan or council tax debt, you don't have to pay for help. Free FCA-regulated debt charities and advisors will negotiate with creditors on your behalf and set up a plan you can afford.
What you get
- 100% free, confidential and FCA-regulated
- Stops creditor calls and pauses interest where eligible
- DMP, IVA, Breathing Space and bankruptcy options explained
- No obligation — most people just need one conversation
- Advisors trained to spot vulnerability and signpost benefits
How to choose
Free advice first, always
Companies that charge for debt advice are taking money you need to repay creditors. Free services are equally good — often better — because they're independent.
Breathing Space
If you're a UK resident, you can apply for a 60-day legal pause on creditor action while you get advice. Mental Health Breathing Space lasts the duration of your treatment plus 30 days.
DMP vs IVA vs DRO vs Bankruptcy
A DMP is informal and flexible. An IVA is legally binding and writes off remaining debt after 5–6 years. A DRO suits very low income/assets. Bankruptcy is the nuclear option. An advisor will recommend the right one based on your situation — not commission.
You're not alone
Over 8 million UK adults struggle with debt. Talking to someone is the single biggest step — everything gets easier afterwards.
What to compare
| Feature | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Cost | £0 — always |
| Regulation | FCA-authorised |
| Options covered | Budgeting, DMP, IVA, DRO, bankruptcy, Breathing Space |
| Contact methods | Phone, online chat, in-app, face-to-face |
| Wait time | Same day to a few days for an appointment |
FAQs
- Will getting debt advice hurt my credit score?
- Just speaking to an advisor has no effect. Entering a DMP, IVA or DRO will show on your file and lower your score, but they're often the fastest route back to a healthy financial life.
- Can creditors still contact me?
- Once an advisor takes over, they handle creditor contact. Under Breathing Space, creditor contact is legally suspended for 60 days.
- Is the advice really free?
- Yes — free debt advice is funded by the Money & Pensions Service and creditor contributions. There's no catch.