We aim to make our website as accessible as possible. However if you use a screen reader and require debt advice you may find it easier to phone us instead. Our phone number is 0 8 0 0 1 3 8 1 1 1 1. Freephone (including all mobiles).

Debt Awareness Week 2026

Save the date: 16 to 22 March


Debt can affect anyone

Yet the shame people feel around it often prevents them from getting the support they need.

This Debt Awareness Week (16–22 March 2026), we are tackling the issue head-on.

What the data tells us

Our recent national polling shows that debt is far more common - and more stigmatised - than many people realise:

right arrowDebt is common


Over half of people in the UK (50%+) have experienced problem debt at some point in their lives.


right arrowJudgement fuels shame


Nearly 60% of people in debt feel others assume they are irresponsible, reinforcing stigma and discouraging them from seeking help.


right arrowStigma keeps people silent


While many say they would talk about money worries, almost half (44%) of people who have experienced debt told no one.


Research conducted by Censuswide among a sample of 4,000 UK nationally representative general consumers aged 18+, between 13/01/2026 and 19/01/2026.

Karen on Feefo says:

"StepChange literally changed my life. I literally was so anxious about my debt, constantly living in constant fear of how I was going to pay my bills. But after contacting StepChange, I can now sleep at night, I have such relief now. It was the best decision I have made. StepChange have been so amazing, I just wish I had contacted them earlier. There is no shame for being in debt, it happens to lots of people, you are not alone."

House Graphic

What we are doing

Throughout the week, we will be starting conversations about debt - and challenging harmful assumptions - wherever we can:

  • On social media, we will be encouraging open, honest conversations about money worries. Look out for our activity on TikTok and Reddit.
  • In the media, we will be sharing our latest research and real client stories to show how common debt is — and why no one should feel ashamed of it.
  • With our partners, we will be running awareness sessions and webinars to help more people recognise the signs of debt and seek support sooner.
  • In parliament - we will be engaging with MPs and policy makers directly to highlight the key issues.

I think I need help

If you are in debt and it feels overwhelming, you don’t have to face it alone. Start by writing down your main money worries and looking for trustworthy advice.

We offer free, confidential online debt advice, backed by experts. Reaching out can feel daunting - but it is a powerful first step towards regaining control and finding a solution that works for you.

My organisation would like to get involved

If you are part of an organisation that would like to get involved in the week, we would love to hear from you.

Email marketing@stepchange.org and we can provide you with information about how to get involved.

How we make a difference

Debt is hard to talk about. But we have been helping people overcome this barrier for over 30 years. Our clients share – in their own words – the impact debt has had on them and their journey out.

Read their stories

7 days graphic

Not quite ready to get advice? Try our 7 Days, 7 Ways email programme

We know it can be hard taking the first step. We are here to guide you on your way. Sign up for our 7 Days, 7 Ways email programme to get ready for debt advice.

One day at a time. One step at a time. At any time that suits you.

Sign up for 7 Days, 7 Ways

Not sure what help you need?

Answer a few quick questions to find out how close you are to having a debt problem, and what steps you can take to deal with your money worries

Start the test now