Search
Close
Log in
Menu
Our services and solutions
We also provide
Don't know where to start?
Answer a few questions, so we can find the best way to help
Got a debt question?
Popular searches
More about us
Working together
Debt in the UK
StepChange in Parliament
We work with parliamentarians on briefings, events & debt trends
The latest debt trends & analysis from our industry experts
Get involved
Client support
OnlineDMP login
Log back in to OnlineDMP
Other ways to get in touch
Get online debt advice now
Get free online debt advice in less than 30 minutes from the UK's leading debt charity
If you think someone you care about is going through a difficult time with money, there are ways you can help.
To support a friend with money worries:
Fewer than one in three people will seek help with their debt problems. It often takes a ‘tipping point’ (such as an emergency expense or sudden change in circumstances) before the financial reality finally hits home.
If you suspect that your loved one may be in debt, keep an eye out for these ten ‘red flags’:
Saying “I’m in debt and I don’t know what to do” out loud, even to someone you trust, can be terrifying. Who is your friend most likely to open up to? Is it you or someone else?
Talk to a mutual friend or family member in confidence. You may find this other friend has noticed the same things you have.
Talking about debt can reduce stress, make money worries feel normal and also encourage your friend to get help.
We help thousands of people each week, providing independent and non-judgemental debt advice and support to help them to take back control of their finances. More and more people are facing debt problems these days - they're not alone.
Our real life debt stories, from people who changed their lives, may encourage your friend to ask for help.
It's natural to want to help a friend or loved one, and chances are you’ve probably lent them money now and again. Many clients who get in touch with us have fallen into debt because they sacrificed their own income to help friends or family. It's important to look after your own finances and not lend large sums if it will lead to your own money worries.
If your friend is struggling now, chances are they’ll struggle to pay back a loan on time each month. So if a loved one asks you to be a guarantor on a loan, you could explain that you don’t want debt to ruin your relationship, but that you’re there for them and want to help in other ways.
Worrying about someone can take its toll on your own mental health. Remember to take time to practise some self-care.
Mental Health UK say: “We recommend practising the five ways to wellbeing:
We know it can be hard to watch loved ones suffering. If someone you know is struggling with money worries, we're here when they're ready for help.
← Back to Christmas guides
You don't have to spend money on presents to make someone's day. Let them know you're thinking of them with a Priceless Promise.
Our team of debt experts help thousands of people every week to deal with their debt problems, and get their lives back on track.