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This page explains some first steps you can take if you're worried about money or debt. We don't give debt advice or handle your case. Instead, we signpost to trusted organisations that can help across the UK.
Version 1.1.0 · Last reviewed: 1 December 2025
If you or someone else is in immediate danger
If you feel at immediate risk of harm, or you think someone else is, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E department (opens in a new tab) straight away.
If you're worried about money or debt
The sooner you speak to a free, regulated debt advice charity, the more options you're likely to have. These organisations can help you understand your full situation and explain what might be possible in your country of the UK.
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StepChange Debt Charity
Free, regulated debt advice charity working across the UK. You can start online or by phone.
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National Debtline
Free debt advice service from the Money Advice Trust, with separate guidance for England, Wales and Scotland.
Website: https://www.nationaldebtline.org (opens in a new tab)
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Citizens Advice
Independent advice on debts, benefits, work, housing and more. Local offices and online content.
Website: Debt and money section on Citizens Advice (opens in a new tab)
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MoneyHelper
Government-backed guidance on dealing with money and debt, including tools and links to free advice services.
Website: MoneyHelper – dealing with debt (opens in a new tab)
We can't tell you which organisation to choose. The services listed above are widely recognised, free to contact and explain clearly which country or countries they cover.
If money worries are affecting your mental health
It's very common for money problems to affect sleep, mood and relationships. You're not weak or failing if you feel low, anxious or stuck. There are places you can talk about how you feel, without judgment.
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Samaritans
24/7 listening support for anyone who's struggling to cope.
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Mind
Mental health charity offering information, local services in some areas, and support lines.
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Andy's Man Club
Free peer-support groups for men, meeting weekly in local venues and online.
If you're worried you might hurt yourself, or you feel you can't keep yourself safe, please treat it as urgent. Call 999 or go to A&E.
If money is being used to control or abuse you
Sometimes debt and money worries are linked to abuse or control by a partner, ex-partner or family member. This is sometimes called economic abuse or financial abuse.
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Refuge
Support for women and children experiencing domestic abuse, including financial and economic abuse.
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Women’s Aid
Information and local services for women experiencing domestic abuse.
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Men’s Advice Line
Confidential support for men experiencing domestic abuse in heterosexual or same-sex relationships.
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Galop
Support for LGBTQ+ people experiencing abuse or violence, including domestic abuse and hate crime.
More organisations and resources
We keep a longer list of trusted organisations on our Resources page. You can use it to find more options for your country of the UK, or to explore support around benefits, mental health and safety.
We don't earn commission or referral fees from any organisation listed. Being included on the Resources page never depends on payment.