What you'll do
- Know the kinds of free help available
- Understand what financial counsellors and legal services do
- Prepare for an appointment so it is useful
- Ask the right questions during your session
- Follow up on the advice you receive
5 min
Help is available
Free, confidential services exist to help people dealing with debt. Financial counsellors can help you understand your options and budget, and community legal services can offer general legal guidance. There is no shame in asking — these services exist for exactly this reason.
This is general information, not legal advice. The services below provide tailored advice for your circumstances.
Who can help
You may be able to turn to:
- Financial counsellors — free, independent help with money and debt
- Community legal centres — general legal information and guidance
- Legal aid services — help for those who are eligible
Step-by-step
- Gather your paperwork — letters, statements, and any reference numbers.
- Find a free financial counselling or legal service and book an appointment.
- Before the session, write down your main questions and concerns.
- During the session, take notes and ask what your options are.
- Afterwards, follow the advice and keep your records together.
You can find further pointers and contact options in our Help Centre.
Making the most of it
Be open about your full situation so the advice fits your circumstances. If you need to discuss your specific account with us, you can reach us through our contact page.
Good to know
- Free, confidential help with debt is available and widely used
- Financial counsellors and legal services can guide your next steps
- Prepare your paperwork and questions before an appointment
- Take notes and follow up on the advice you receive
FAQ
Is free debt help really free?
Yes. Financial counselling and many community legal services are free and confidential. They exist to help people understand and manage debt.
What does a financial counsellor do?
A financial counsellor offers free, independent help to understand your options, work through a budget, and plan your next steps with debt.
What should I bring to an appointment?
Bring your letters, statements, and reference numbers, plus a written list of your main questions so you can make the most of the time.
Still not sure? Our team is happy to talk it through.