Financial Hardship

What is Financial Hardship?

Financial hardship is something we may all experience at some point in our lives. If you are struggling to pay bills, make debt repayments or afford the essentials we may say you are in financial hardship. This could come about due to a number of reasons such as loss of employment, injury, illness or divorce. If you find yourself in financial hardship you are not alone. It is estimated that as of July 2022, 1/6 UK households are now in ‘serious financial difficulties’.

Severe Financial Hardship

If you are suffering severe financial hardship and you are struggling to feed yourself and/or your family, there is help available. You can visit the Trussell Trust which is a charity that provides assistance to people in genuine need. They have set up food banks all over the UK and you can use this link to find a food bank close to you. Visit www.trusselltrust.org to find out more and read our recent blog about using food banks here.

Financial hardship during the cost of living crisis

Due to the rising cost of living in the UK, more and more households are being pushed into financial hardship. With the energy price cap rising, fuel prices and grocery prices increasing, more households are being faced with debts. If you are struggling with the cost of living crisis and need help, support or want to find out more, visit our cost of living page here.

What help is available?

If you are struggling with your finances, there are a number of ways you can seek help.

Money Helper

Money Helper is an arms-length organisation set up by the government to be a trusted, free source of information and guidance. They can provide advice and support on a range of debt-related issues.

Benefits

You may be eligible for benefits if you are on a low income or are unable to work. The UK Government has an online Benefits Calculator to help you discover what benefits you may be entitled to. Find out more in our Benefits Guide.

Local Councils

It is always worth checking with your local council what support is available. Each council runs its own scheme to help support those living in the area. This could include help with paying rent or bills, food provisions or other essential items. It is known as the Household Support Fund.

Charitable Support

There are many charities in the UK which can help you during financial hardship. Turn2Us is a national charity which provides support and advice for those in financial crisis. You can seek help from them at www.turn2us.org.uk. Other charities include Step Change, Citizens Advice or the previously mentioned Trussell Trust.

Struggling to cope?

If you are finding that your debts are causing you to feel stressed, anxious or depressed, or if you have a mental health issue which prevents you from dealing with your debts, the Samaritans may be able to help you by talking to you about what is troubling you and how you are feeling. You can contact the Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90, or you can email: jo@samaritans.org.

Debt Advice and Financila Hardship

You can get free, no-obligation debt advice using our online tool, with no phone call or in-person meeting. Alternatively, you can contact our debt advisors directly here.