Debt advice for my gf

Sentinal73

Hi all

My gf has recently admitted to being in debt, but wont go into all the details. I think that she is too embarrassed

fermi

Hi.

Sentinal73 wrote: »

What should she do? Is there some websites or phone numbers of debt-help organizations?

Yes.

From Martin's article: Where to start, what to do, where to get help.

The right people to go to

You need non-profit debt counselling help, in other words a one-on-one session with someone who is paid to help you, not to make money out of you. This is different to ‘free’: many commercial companies say they’re free as you’re not charged directly, but you’ll still pay somehow. The places I'd recommend:

• Consumer Credit Counselling Service - Website: CCCS Telephone: 0800 138 1111
• National Debtline - Website: National Debtline Telephone: 0808 808 4000
• Citizens Advice Bureau - Website: Citizens Advice or visit your local CAB centre (find nearest
• Community Legal Advice - Website: Community Legal Advice Telephone: 0845 345 4 345

These counsellors use a variety of techniques, you may be put on a debt management plan, where they negotiate with your creditors. You may be recommended an IVA (Individual Voluntary Arrangement) or even bankruptcy (not as scary as it sounds). They will certainly show you how to prioritise the most important debts to enable you to keep food on the table and roof over your head.

Most importantly they're not judgmental, they're not there to tell you off, they're just there to help you sort out the problem. The sooner you talk to them the better. It may help you sleep at night.

Unfortunately they can be oversubscribed. If it takes time to get an appointment with them, use the info on their websites to start to plan. There may also be a local debt councillor in your area, such as Christians Against Poverty (not about religion even if it sounds like it) but ensure it's a non profit/charity.

Bargainfinder_3

Just want to say, well done you for supporting her... if she knows you're supporting her I'm sure she will get there sooner

Sentinal73

thanks, iits just a sensitive subject for most people, i wont judge her, everyone gets themselves in situations where they cant help it, i just want to help and support her in anyway i can

thanks

CCCS_Alan

Hi Sentinal73

It’s good to see you are supporting her and hopefully you can help her along her journey to becoming debt free.

If she has moved a few times it may be beneficial for her to get her credit report to see how the debts stand. Its normally best get a few credit reports as not all companies subscribe to all the services. Here are just a couple to look at:

www.Experian.co.uk/

www.equifax.co.uk/

More can be found over the internet.

Once she knows the full amount of debt post a SOA on here for further advice on what she may be able to do to improve her situation. Then armed with her new SOA she can contact one of the advice agencies as Fermi has posted. They can advise what her best options are for her becoming debt free.

If she does not wish to conduct a phone or face to face appointment with an agency she can try our online debt advice facility called Debt Remedy.

Debt Remedy would assist her in completing a financial statement and she would be provided with tailored advice on the best way to deal with your situation. Click here to go directly to Debt Remedy.

Regards

CCCS_Alan

Sentinal73

thanks for your advice, i will talk to my gf and get back to you, cheers again!!