DMP what expenses do they see as being unreasonable?

houseiseverything

Hello. we are about to send our forms off to Business Debt Line who will be doing our DMP through Payplan. These debts are my partners business debts and I knew nothing of them until 3 weeks ago.
Anyway, I will be the one paying until he gets a job. I have a membership at a gym which I would really like to keep, but the counsellor at BDL said that this would be questioned by the creditors. Also I read on here that sometimes creditors are less likely to freeze interest if you have put down what they consider unreasonable expenses. Should we put it down or not do you think? I am on a contract at the gym and couldn't cancel it for a few months anyway. Also I claim 50% of the cost on my tax as I am self employed.
I am still extremely angry at the position I have been put in, and I wonder if this is clouding my judgement. Also, since joining the gym 10 years ago I have kept my weight under control long term and I am very fit- I go at least 4 times a week.
What are other peoples experiences on expenses like this? Thanks.

BlushingRose

Well, you might be able to spread the cost of the gym membership through the rest of your SOA if you really can't give it up.
So...you smoke and it costs you the price of the gym, perhaps, a month, you see what I mean?

FireWyrm

I'm with Blushing Rose. Unless I'm greatly mistaken, you are not required to provide proof of your outgoings, so I would be inclined to 'hide' the odd item that is nothing to do with your partner and is being paid entirely by yourself for yourself. After all, you do need to have some recreation or you will go nuts.

I did the same thing with court costs on a trumped up traffic charge (long story, entirely unfair etc) and by the time I'd finished, I had exactly £5 spare per month to pay the 'fine'. It was dropped in the end. I'm not saying you should avoid obligations, but there is no reason to cause yourself undue stress and anxiety being too stingy with yourself in an effort to pay faster....unless you want to of course.