Recieved a letter from us?

If you fail to pay your debts we have the power to request the court to recover the debt in various ways, including the use of:

If you have received a letter from us please call to discuss your account so we can work with you to get your payments back on track. Telephone our friendly advisors on 01202 464592 today.

Harvey Sturtt & Associates - Debt Advice

We deal with people in debt every single day, this page gives some basic advice for dealing with debt.

Reasons for Debt

There are many reasons why people end up in debt. Sometimes it is because of an unexpected change in their circumstances or, perhaps, because of:

  • Illness
  • Disability
  • Unemployment
  • Bereavement
  • Borrowing too much money

It is very important for you to recognise all the reasons why you are in debt. You need to look for the symptoms so that you can truly understand how to help yourself out of debt, or how a money advisor could help you work through your problems.

The most common forms of debt include:

  • Credit card debt
  • Personal loans with finance companies
  • Bank and Buildings Society loans and overdrafts
  • Charge cards/store cards
  • Catalogues
  • Personal debts to friends and family
  • Credit sale agreements
  • Student loans
  • Mobile phone debt

The primary issue people face with solving debt problems is to make absolutely sure that your income is greater than your expenditure. Obtaining credit can be an excellent source of establishing some short term financial stability but the only way to achieve long term stability is to fully control and understand your finances.

20 tips for avoiding and dealing with debt:

  • Find out if you are entitled to any additional benefits such as Job Seekers Allowance, Maternity Benefit, Income Support or Working Family Tax Credit. (see links below)
  • Find out if you are entitled to any help with rent or Council Tax. (see links below)
  • You can cut down on the cost of electricity by not leaving appliances on stand-by. Switch off your lights when nobody is in the room. Lower the thermostat on radiators to reduce heating costs.
  • If you are unemployed, or unable to work through illness, check if you have payment protection insurance on your mortgage, loans or credit cards, it is possible you may be able to have your payments made for you.
  • Supermarkets own brands can often be just as good as the well-known brands, simply cheaper.
  • Shop once a week and plan your weekly food needs and budget. Preparing packed lunches could save around £50.00 per month. If you freeze left over food and re-use it you save the cost of a meal.
  • Cut down on eating out and take-aways.
  • If you drive a small economical car you can save on insurance, tax and fuel.
  • Instead of using your car for a short journey, consider walking, using a bike or taking public transport. This will save a surprising amount of money while also improving your fitness and health.
  • Use your local library for books, CDs, DVDs and videos.
  • You can enjoy family activities without spending money. Museums, galleries and parks are free and make great days out.
  • Don't browse around shops and stores, make a shopping list and stick to it.
  • Try to cut down on cigarettes or, if you can, give them up completely. (see links below)
  • Sell unwanted items in the local classifieds or on the internet - many newspapers offer free advertisements. (see links below)
  • Cut down on nights out, drink alcohol in moderation.
  • Look how to gain study grants. You may be able to study part time to improve your prospects while you work. (see links below)
  • Research childcare in your area. There maybe council/church run nurseries and sometimes grants are available. Use family whenever possible for baby-sitting.
  • Check for better work opportunities closer to home. Consider the additional costs of your job e.g. childcare, travel time and expense.
  • Reduce monthly subscriptions to mobile phones, internet and Sky television.
  • Take holidays at off-peak times and choose less expensive packages e.g. self catering.

Useful Contacts and Links for Debt Help

Citizens' Advice Bureau - They deal with money advice and debt problems. Many CABs employ specialist money advice workers. You can find your local Citizens' Advice bureau on their website or in the local telephone directory.

Money Advice Scotland - they can give you details of your nearest money adviser.

CCCS (Consumer Credit Counselling Service) - Free telephone number 0800 138 1111 open 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday

The National Debtline - They can give free advice and provides information packs on dealing with debt. The lines are open from 9am-9pm Monday to Friday and from 9.30am to 1pm on Saturdays. The National Debtline phone number is 0808 808 4000.

Entitle To - Website to help determine your council tax, housing benefit and tax credit eligibility.

Go Smoke Free - NHS Quit Smoking Campaign - Help from the NHS to quit smoking.