Help is available.

If debt is getting on top of you, you're not alone, and it's not hopeless. These UK services are free and confidential, and they won't judge you.

Need to talk to someone now?

Samaritans are there day or night, and the call is free. Or text SHOUT to 85258. In an emergency, call 999.

Call 116 123 Text SHOUT to 85258

Advice online or by phone, and help setting up a plan to pay back what you owe.

0800 138 1111 stepchange.org

Free advice by phone, webchat or online, from the Money Advice Trust charity.

0808 808 4000 nationaldebtline.org

Backed by the government. Its locator finds a free debt adviser for you, online, by phone or face to face.

0800 138 7777 Find an adviser

Free debt help with home visits from a local centre. Open to anyone, whatever their beliefs.

0800 328 0006 capuk.org

Talk to someone at a local advice centre, or over the phone.

Debt advice is always free. You never need to pay a company to deal with your debts. Be wary of adverts promising to "write off" what you owe.
You can ask for breathing space. In England and Wales, a debt adviser can get you up to 60 days' protection: most interest and charges are frozen and lenders have to hold off. Scotland has a similar scheme.
Tell your lenders early. They're expected to help if you're struggling, for example by freezing interest or agreeing lower payments.
Is gambling part of it? The National Gambling Helpline is free and open 24/7 on 0808 8020 133.

Undebtify isn't a debt advice service and isn't linked to any of these organisations. Numbers checked September 2026.