StepChange Debt Charity sees busiest days in more than a year

^{12 January 2026}

On the first Monday of the year, 5th January, StepChange Debt Charity had its busiest day in more than a year, as 800 clients went through debt advice, which is higher than any day in 2025. The charity has also seen nearly 100,000 people visit its website since the start of 2026.

Meanwhile, almost 4,000 people visited StepChange's website on Christmas Day, whilst New Year's Eve and New Year's Day saw 15,401 visitors to the website.

These statistics come as new Censuswide polling commissioned by StepChange reveals two in five (40%) British adults, equivalent to just over 21 million* people, expect their financial situation to worsen over the next 12 months. The statistics come as StepChange shares its top tips for people struggling with debt in the New Year, and where to get support.

Over three in five (63%) of those expecting their finances to get worse say it's due to higher energy bills from January, while two in three (66%), say it's due to the general higher cost of living.

The new research also examines how much people find themselves worrying about money, and for many, money worries have intensified over the past year:

• Around one in six (17%) British adults say that they always worry about money, while a further 55% say they often or sometimes worry about money.
• Over two in five people (43%) say they worry more now about money than they did this time one year ago.
• Women, in particular, are more likely to feel the financial strain as almost one in two (47%) report worrying more about money than they did a year ago, compared to just under two in five (39%) of men.

StepChange knows this time of year can be difficult for people's finances, as the charity tends to see an increase in people seeking free debt advice in January.

Vikki Brownridge, CEO at StepChange, urges people to reach out for help if they are struggling:

"Across the UK, many people are still feeling the pressure of rising living costs, from everyday essentials to stubbornly high energy bills. We also know that it's common for people to feel worried about their finances after the festive season is over, particularly if they've relied on credit or stretched their budget to cover costs. As we head into 2026, more people are reporting worries about how they'll manage their money compared with this time last year — a clear sign that the financial pressures households face are far from temporary.

"We know from over 30 years of providing free debt advice that taking early, practical steps can make a real difference to your situation. If you're finding it harder to keep up with bills or credit commitments, it's important to talk to your creditors as soon as possible. They have a responsibility to support you if you're in financial difficulty, and reaching out early can open the door to options that ease the pressure.

"If you need further support, StepChange is here to offer free and impartial debt advice. Whether you want support with managing debt, help building a realistic budget, or guidance on the next steps to take, our advice can help you regain control of your finances in 2026, and beyond."

StepChange has shared its top five tips for clearing debt in the New Year:

1. Get clarity with a realistic budget
   Start the year by listing all your income and outgoings in detail. A clear budget shows exactly what you can afford to put towards your debts. Online budgeting tools, including the free resources on the StepChange website, can help you stay organised and spot areas where you can cut back.
2. Review your spending for quick savings
   Look through your recent statements for subscriptions or direct debits you no longer use. Simple switches, such as moving to a cheaper supermarket or adjusting everyday spending, can free up extra cash to put towards reducing your debt.
3. Check whether you can boost your income
   Make sure you're receiving all the government support you're entitled to. StepChange's free Benefits Calculator can help you identify any additional income you could claim in the short term, which may make it easier to tackle your debts faster.
4. Prioritise the most important bills first
   If you're struggling to pay everything at once, focus on 'priority debts' — such as rent or mortgage payments, council tax, and energy bills — as missing these can have more serious consequences. After that, try to meet the minimum payments on other debts and then put any spare money towards the borrowing that costs you the most in interest.
5. Don't hesitate to seek expert help
   If you find you're still unable to clear your debts or you feel overwhelmed, it may be time to get professional advice. Free, impartial support is available from organisations like StepChange. Reaching out early can make managing your finances much easier.

Notes to editors

• The research was conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of 2,000 Great Britain nationally representative respondents aged 18+ (excluding Northern Ireland). The data was collected between 15.12.25 - 18.12.25. Censuswide abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society and follows the MRS code of conduct and ESOMAR principles. Censuswide is also a member of the British Polling Council.
• Population estimates have been calculated by StepChange, based on ONS data. 39.7% x 53,529,934 (Using 2024 ONS mid-year population estimate figures) = 21,251,384*
• For further debt tips or case studies, please contact the press office.