Debt
Help is at hand if you find yourself running into debt.
Self help
If you feel able to sort out your debt problems without one to one support try following the advice given on the Money Saving Expert website.
Debt Counselling
Debt counsellors use a variety of techniques. It could be simply negotiating with creditors to freeze your interest, you may be put on a debt management plan, where they negotiate with your creditors. You may be pointed toward an IVA (Individual Voluntary Arrangement), Debt Relief Order or even bankruptcy (not as scary as it sounds).
They will certainly show you how to prioritise the most important debts to enable you to keep food on the table and a roof over your head. They are not judgmental and talking to them may help you sleep at night.
Unfortunately the counselling services can be oversubscribed. If it takes time to get an appointment with them, use the info on their websites to start to plan.
If you feel you need help contact the Advice Centre or one of the following non-profit organisations:
Consumer Credit Counselling Service - the CCCS is a registered charity offering free, confidential advice and support to anyone who is worried about debt.
Citizens Advice - full debt and consumer advice service with many bureau having specialist caseworkers to deal with any type of debt including repossessions and negotiation with creditors.
National Debtline - provide free, confidential and independent advice on how to deal with debt problems.
Christians Aganist Poverty - a debt counselling agency, which specialises in helping those who are emotionally struggling too. The religious focus is why they do it, not how they do it.
Community Legal Service - legal advice on a wide range of issues, including debt (usually for those on benefits or a low income). The Housing Duty Scheme gives free advice by phone or at around 100 courts across England and Wales if you are in danger of eviction or repossession.