What steps should I take?

sourcrates

You wouldn't happen to know how long interest will be added to my debts? Is there a maximum period they can add interest or an average period? Is it affected by anything I do, e.g. should I contact them and tell them to stop or is it better to completely ignore them? I'm a little concerned that the debts could surpass 50k and therefore remove the possibility of a DRO in June or after. (I am likely going for a self-managed DMP but would like to be fully aware of all my options in the future, should I need to use it).

How long is a piece of string?

Interest only stops after default, defaults can take 3/6 months or longer.

Best way to get defaults is by non payment, if you contact them its likely to just slow down the process as they will think an arrangement to pay may be an option for you.

Further down the line, once defaulted, should it become clear a DRO may be on the cards but your balance is too high, nothing stopping you paying down each creditor to lower your balances.