💸 Help If You’re Struggling to Pay: Practical Support for UK Households
In today’s cost-of-living crisis, millions of people across the UK are struggling to make ends meet. Whether you’re behind on bills, finding it difficult to keep up with credit card payments, or facing rent or mortgage arrears, you’re not alone — and there is help available.
This guide explains what to do if you’re in financial difficulty, the support available from UK banks and government bodies, and the best steps to regain control of your money.
🔍 How Do I Know If I’m in Financial Difficulty?
You may be in financial difficulty if:
-
You’re using credit to pay for essentials like food or utilities
-
You’re regularly missing payments on loans, credit cards, or bills
-
You’re being charged late fees or overdraft charges
-
You’ve received warning letters from creditors or utility companies
-
You’re borrowing more just to keep up with minimum payments
If any of these apply to you, take action early. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes — and the more expensive your debt may grow.
🏦 What Help Can UK Banks Offer?
Many banks now have dedicated support teams for customers struggling to pay. If you’re finding it hard to meet repayments, reach out before missing a payment.
Top UK banks and their support services:
| Bank | Financial Support Options |
|---|---|
| NatWest | Offers repayment plans, interest freezes, and access to financial hardship teams – NatWest Help |
| Barclays | Specialist team to discuss tailored help – Barclays Money Worries |
| Lloyds Bank | Offers payment holidays and support services – Lloyds Support |
| HSBC UK | Financial hardship department, temporary payment adjustments – HSBC Help |
| Santander UK | 24/7 online support and tailored repayment options – Santander Support |
Important: Talking to your bank won’t affect your credit score on its own. In fact, asking for help before missing a payment is seen as being responsible.
💡 Struggling with Energy Bills or Council Tax?
You may qualify for reduced payments, grants, or debt relief schemes through your local council, energy provider, or UK Government support initiatives.
✅ Key resources:
-
Help for Households – GOV.UK – includes energy support, cost-of-living payments, and more
📋 7 Immediate Steps to Take If You’re Struggling
1. Make a Budget
Use a free tool like MoneyHelper’s Budget Planner to understand what you spend and where you can cut costs.
2. Prioritise Payments
Some bills have more serious consequences if unpaid. Focus on:
-
Rent or mortgage
-
Council tax
-
Energy bills
-
Court fines or child maintenance
These are priority debts — not paying them can lead to eviction, bailiffs, or legal action.
3. Stop Using Credit to Survive
Using loans or cards to cover basic living costs often worsens your situation. If you’re relying on credit, it’s time to seek help.
4. Speak to a Free Debt Advice Charity
Never pay for debt advice. UK-based charities offer free, impartial support:
They can help you set up a Debt Management Plan (DMP), negotiate with creditors, or even apply for debt relief.
5. Ask for Payment Holidays
Many providers (banks, insurers, utility firms) can pause your payments temporarily if you’re in genuine hardship.
This could include:
-
3–6 month payment freezes
-
Lower minimum payments
-
Interest and charge waivers
6. Check What Benefits or Grants You’re Entitled To
Even if you’re working, you might qualify for:
-
Universal Credit
-
Housing Benefit or Discretionary Housing Payments (DHPs)
-
Cost of Living Payments
-
Council Tax Reduction
-
Charitable grants
Use Turn2us Benefits Checker to find out what you’re missing.
7. Cancel or Downgrade Non-Essentials
If you’re in survival mode, temporarily cancelling things like:
-
TV subscriptions
-
Gym memberships
-
Takeaway and entertainment spending
can give you breathing room while you get back on track.
🧠 What About Mental Health and Money Stress?
Worrying about money is not just a financial issue — it’s a mental health issue too.
If you’re overwhelmed, anxious, or feel like there’s no way out, contact:
Help is confidential, free, and always there when you need it.
🤔 What If You’ve Missed Payments Already?
Don’t panic. One or two missed payments can be repaired — but it’s essential to act quickly.
-
Contact your creditor or lender immediately
-
Explain the reason for the missed payment
-
Ask for a short-term plan or breathing space
-
Avoid ignoring letters or court claims (always respond)
You may be eligible for the Breathing Space scheme in England and Wales, which gives you 60 days’ legal protection from creditor action while you get help.
Learn more: Breathing Space Scheme – GOV.UK
✅ Summary: You’re Not Alone — There’s Real Help Available
| Problem | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Can’t pay rent/mortgage | Speak to landlord/lender early, seek council support |
| Behind on bills | Contact energy firms, request help or hardship plans |
| Credit card debt spiralling | Talk to your bank, contact StepChange or National Debtline |
| Feeling mentally overwhelmed | Call Samaritans, Mind, or your GP |
| Unsure where to start | Use Citizens Advice or MoneyHelper for full guidance |
🔍 Final Thoughts: Act Early, Get Support, Rebuild
Falling behind financially can feel isolating — but thousands across the UK are facing the same struggle, and support is out there. Whether it’s help from your bank, government grants, or charities, the key is to act before the situation escalates.
The sooner you ask for help, the sooner you can take back control.