Debt Awareness Week is StepChange’s flagship annual consumer campaign, this year exploring the judgement and stigma that can sometimes come with debt, with the aim of challenging attitudes and helping people access the support they need.
At Citizens Advice Hull & East Riding, we know that that debt problems, however big or small, create huge impacts on people’s lives – and we can work with you to solve them.
Here, members of our Debt and Energy teams share their tips to get on top of your debts and get the help you need.
Work with your energy, water and other providers
Submit your meter readings regularly to avoid incorrect billing and large catch-up bills.
Talk to your energy provider and let them know if you are struggling. There are lots of things your energy provider can do to help you with your energy debt but they have to know you’re struggling.
Check and see if your energy provider has a support fund you can apply for to help reduce your debt.
You can set up very small payment plans with your energy provider to pay back debt that you owe, the repayment doesn’t have to push you further into debt.
Are you struggling to pay your bills? It is important that you speak with your provider as early as possible to see what support they can offer you.
So many people come to Citizens Advice with the weight of their money worries on their shoulders. It is great to see the look of relief on their faces when they leave their debt advice session knowing there is light at the end of the tunnel and a brighter future in store for them.
If your debt situation means that you are too depressed, stressed or afraid to open your post, be brave, pick up the phone to Citizens Advice to ask for help. We will look at your situation with you, outline your options, and can help you to have your debts written off or negotiate affordable payments on your behalf, whichever is your chosen option.
How we can help
Many people who come to Citizens Advice leave our service better off. We can help you to resolve your debt situation and we will also explore your finances to see if you could be entitled to benefits or access social tariffs to make live more affordable for you.
Citizens Advice is a great place to come for debt advice. Our advice and casework services are free. We can provide help negotiating with creditors, or help you get your debts written off or challenge liability if appropriate. We will even tell you if ignoring bailiffs or your creditors it is safe for you to do. We don’t earn commission on any debt solutions so our advice is impartial and independent and at the end of the day, you choose what is best for you after receiving our advice. We don’t pressurise you into unaffordable debt management plans or IVAs (Individual Voluntary Arrangements).
Falling behind on rent, council tax, energy or water bills? Can’t keep up with credit card repayments? Is your bank grabbing too much of your money as soon as you are paid? Come to Citizens Advice for free impartial debt advice to have help with debt solutions and income maximisation.
Expecting bailiffs or enforcement agents? Afraid to answer your phone or the door? Worried debt collectors will force their way in and take your belongings? Come to Citizens Advice.
Has your landlord told you they are going to evict you because of rent arrears? Citizens Advice may be able to help you save your tenancy if you act now. Pick up the phone and ring Citizens Advice for help dealing with your situation.
