Jump Start Jan 2016: Serious debts

As promised, we’re looking at debt for the next few days. If you don’t have any debts then congratulations! However, if you have debts and you’re worried that they’re serious, keep reading for some emergency contacts.

For serious debts, always start by seeking advice and support from a non-profit service rather than going to a commercial debt consolidation company. There are several respected debt help charities in the UK, and here are just a few of them:

• StepChange debt charity
• Christians Against Poverty
• National Debtline

You can also get free and impartial help from:

• Citizens Advice
• Shelter

If you’re worried about bailiffs, find out about your rights via Citizens Advice.

And finally, if you are worried about loan sharks, there’s help available too.

Don’t delay – get some help now before things get any worse.