What you'll do
- Offer practical, caring support to someone in debt
- Encourage them toward free, independent help
- Help without putting your own finances at risk
- Communicate with creditors only with proper authority
- Look after yourself while supporting others
6 min read
How you can help
Your support matters more than you might realise. Often the most valuable thing is simply listening without judgement and helping the person feel less alone. Practical help — sitting with them as they open letters, or helping make a list — can ease the overwhelm that keeps people stuck.
Support them step by step
- Listen first, without judgement — let them know you are on their side.
- Offer to help them gather their letters and make a simple list of what they owe.
- Encourage them to call the free National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007.
- Offer to sit with them while they make a call or send a message.
- Only speak to a creditor on their behalf if they give clear authority to do so.
- Encourage steady progress rather than trying to fix it all at once.
Protect yourself too
Supporting someone does not mean taking on their debt. Be cautious about lending money or going guarantor, as that can put your own finances at risk — a free financial counsellor can advise on this. If you are helping someone deal with a Merion account, they can authorise you through the contact form. There is more practical guidance on our Help Centre.
Good to know
- Listening without judgement is often the most valuable support you can give.
- Encourage them toward free help on 1800 007 007 rather than carrying it alone.
- Only deal with creditors on their behalf if they give clear authority.
- Avoid lending or going guarantor without independent advice — protect yourself too.
FAQ
Should I lend them money to clear the debt?
Be careful. Lending or going guarantor can put your own finances at risk. This is general information, not advice — suggest they speak to a free financial counsellor (1800 007 007) first.
Can I call Merion on their behalf?
Only if they have given clear authority for you to act for them. Let us know they have authorised you, and we can include that on their account.
How do I help without taking over?
Offer support and encouragement, but let them make the decisions. Helping them access free counselling empowers them rather than carrying it for them.
Still not sure? Our team is happy to talk it through.