BC - Previous MH issues

steveb101501

Hey all, I am new but joined as I just don’t know where to ask these questions. 

I am currently looking into BC and have been advised by a debt charity that it might be the right solution to my unfortunate situation with debt. 

Long story short, I have Bipolar disorder which has caused me a lot of issues in my financial life. When extremely unstable, it has made me think certain things are a good idea when they really are not (taking out credit while insolvent, spending beyond your means etc) as it warps your perception completely. On the other side of the coin it can make you lose all ability to function and caused me to lose control of my finances including losing my career. Near hospital admissions and lots of medical intervention has taken its toll.

I am finally back on the straight and narrow and want to take action to get my debts under control, however I’m concerned that the OR is going to see my mistakes when I haven’t been in control and consider that I’ve been knowingly reckless or made my situation worse without understanding the context of the situation. 

My GP has been sympathetic and has filled in a Debt & Mental Health Evidence form to offer to the OR if needed, I’ve also got evidence of my illness and am going to be a totally open book with the situation, but seeing all the information and anecdotal stories of being hit with BRO’s for behaviour has me very worried and makes me wonder what I’m letting myself in for. 

Can anyone advise on the best way to broach the subject and any advice on how to deal with the OR? I will take the consequences of my actions as they come, but I am very unsure at this point.

Thank you all in advance. 

fatbelly

It's unlikely to be a problem but you can bring it up with the OR when they interview you.
A BRO isn't the end of the world anyway.
How much debt have  you got and are you working or on benefits?
I take it you're in rented accommodation.

Morfx

I accepted a BRO and for me it's not a big deal.. I don't plan on running a company not do I plan on taking any credit over £500.. (5 year BRO)

Minkym00

A BRO shouldn't just be seen as a punishment in any case. It's also to protect you from yourself so that you don't get yourself back in a mess again. Your mental health issues will be mitigation.