Debt Can Affect Anyone - Debt Awareness Week

Financial difficulty isn’t always visible.

It can impact:

• Colleagues
• Friends and family
• Volunteers and service users
• Even those who may appear financially secure

Rising living costs, unexpected life events, or changes in circumstances can all contribute to financial pressure. Recognising this helps us build more compassionate, supportive communities.

Support Is Available

If you or someone you support is struggling with debt, free and confidential help is available from trusted organisations such as StepChange Debt Charity.

They offer:

• Impartial debt advice
• Practical solutions tailored to individual situations
• Support to regain control of finances
• Guidance without judgement
• Reaching out for help is a positive first step.
• Free Budgeting Tool

One simple way to start taking control is by creating a clear picture of your finances.

The free budgeting tool fromStepChange Debt Charity can help you:

• Reduce your expenses
• Maximise your income
• Plan to pay off debts
• Start saving for the future

Free to use - Completely anonymous - Easy to access

The Role of the VCSE Sector

Organisations across the VCSE sector are often on the front line, supporting individuals facing financial hardship.

You can help by:

• Signposting to trusted services like StepChange Debt Charity
• Sharing resources during Debt Awareness Week
• Creating safe, non-judgemental spaces for conversations
• Raising awareness that support is available
• Small actions can make a big difference.

Let’s Break the Stigma

Debt is not a personal failure—it’s a situation, and support is available. By talking more openly and sharing resources, we can ensure that people know:

• They are not alone
• Help is available
• There is a way forward

Need Support?

If you or someone you know needs help, don’t wait—support is there when you need it. Together, we can build stronger, more resilient communities where no one faces financial difficulty alone.