Free Debt Advice: How to Get Help With Debt in the UK

Personal debt remains a serious issue for millions of households across the UK. According to The Money Charity, total unsecured consumer debt reached over \u00a32,000 per adult in 2025, and the cost of living crisis has pushed many families further into the red. Rising energy prices, rent increases, and higher food costs have all contributed to a situation where even people in full-time work are finding it difficult to keep up with repayments.

Council tax debt is one of the fastest-growing forms of arrears in England and Wales. Local authorities issued over 2.8 million liability orders for unpaid council tax in 2024/25, according to government statistics. Many of those affected are on low incomes and may qualify for a council tax reduction or exemption without realising it.

The problem is not limited to any single group. Young people, families, pensioners, and self-employed workers are all affected. What matters is not how you ended up in debt, but what you do about it.

Council tax is a priority debt, which means it carries more serious consequences than credit card or catalogue debt if left unpaid. Your local council can apply to a magistrates’ court for a liability order, which gives them the power to take enforcement action. This can include instructing bailiffs (enforcement agents) to visit your property, making deductions directly from your wages or benefits, or even starting bankruptcy proceedings.

The good news is that councils are required to follow a clear process before taking enforcement action, and there are opportunities at every stage to negotiate a payment arrangement. If you contact your council early enough, most will agree to a manageable repayment plan. Many local authorities also offer council tax reduction schemes for people on low incomes or receiving certain benefits.

Getting the most out of a debt advice appointment is easier if you prepare a few things in advance. You do not need to have everything perfectly organised, but having a rough idea of the following will help your adviser give you accurate guidance:

• A list of who you owe money to and roughly how much
• Your monthly income (wages, benefits, pensions, or any other source)
• Your regular outgoings (rent/mortgage, council tax, utilities, food, transport)
• Any letters or notices you have received from creditors, bailiffs, or your council

Do not worry if some of the figures are estimates. The important thing is to make a start. Many people put off seeking help because they feel overwhelmed or ashamed, but debt advisers are experienced, non-judgmental, and used to helping people in all kinds of situations.

The hardest part is often making that first call or filling in that first online form. Once you do, you will find that the weight lifts significantly. A qualified adviser can help you see a clear path forward, and many people are surprised to learn that their situation is more manageable than they feared.

If you are dealing with council tax arrears, or if bailiffs have already been in contact, do not ignore the problem. Early action gives you the widest range of options and the best chance of reaching an affordable agreement.

Remember: free debt advice exists for a reason. You have already taken the first step by reading this. Now take the next one.

This article is for general information purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. If you need help with your specific circumstances, please contact a qualified debt adviser or one of the free services listed above.