Debt Help Charities Warn of ‘Perfect Storm’ of Financial Challenges

A group of the most prominent debt help charities in Scotland have joined forces to urge people in serious financial difficulties to seek advice from third parties if they need it.

The charities are warning that the forthcoming winter months could bring about a “perfect storm” of challenges for people in Scotland who are already struggling to manage their debts.

Rising energy bills, the end of the government’s furlough scheme and the reduction to Universal Credit payments are all expected to make life more difficult for a huge number of Scottish households in the coming months.

Part of the problem is that reductions to Universal Credit are expected to make it more difficult for many Scottish households to cover their most essential costs and to keep up with their rental payments.

Indeed, recent research suggests that benefit payment cuts will contribute to a major increase in rent arrears and many more people facing issues of long-term housing insecurity.

The charities Christians Against Poverty, Money Advice Scotland, StepChange and Citizens Advice Scotland (CAS) are all urging people with debt problems to get support and guidance on how best to handle their situation if they are struggling to cope on their own.

The message from the charities is to remind people with debt issues that they are not alone and that help is available from a variety of reliable sources in all parts of Scotland.

“This winter is set to be really challenging for so many families across Scotland,” explained Myles Fitt, a financial health spokesperson for CAS.

“Debt is a horrible situation to be in. It can have significant impacts on your mental health and relationships as well as your finances.

“We understand that it can be hard to seek help, and recognise there can be shame and stigma attached, but we also know there are many advantages to asking for advice sooner.”

If you live anywhere in Scotland and you are worried about your personal debts and how to handle your creditors then Scotland Debt Solutions can help. Contact us directly to arrange a FREE and confidential consultation.