In the wake of the COVID pandemic and with the furlough support scheme ending in September 2021, it’s likely that more people than ever will be struggling with financial pressures. In a bid to deliver critical support in a confidential and compassionate manner, debt support and advice charity Ditch Debt with Dignity has launched a free online resource to help people regain control of their finances.
The Road to Reclaiming Financial Peace is an interactive suite of videos which offers guidance to people who are struggling to manage their finances and support to cope with the emotional pressures that accompany this. With a focus on both mental health and practical debt solutions, the video encourages the viewer to work through the journey at their own pace, from identifying urgent situations with life-altering consequences and prioritising debts, to building savings for the future and establishing sustainable financial habits.
It provides tried and tested processes for reclaiming control of financial matters and shares numerous free resources, signposting to websites offering specialist support and giving access to downloadable templates to help with budgeting and debt control.
Ditch Debt with Dignity was launched in Scotland in 2014 by chartered financial planner Wendy Fleming. As well as delivering practical debt solutions to those in financial crisis and providing a safe space for people who feel they have nowhere to turn, the charity strives to remove the shame and stigma associated with debt.
Speaking about the new resource, Wendy said, “Throughout the pandemic, creditors have been very lenient with their clients but we expect this to change when furlough ends. This is likely to lead to a surge in people looking for help with financial problems. Although furlough was welcomed it has meant that for those people who are just managing, the reduction of money coming in every month has been enough for them to slide into debt.
“We have responded to the current situation by producing this interactive video which will provide people with the guidance they need to help themselves and encourages them to ask for help if they get stuck. We want to get the word out to anyone who is struggling with debt that they are not alone and that there is always a way to gain control and establish a healthy financial foundation.”
The video launched on Monday 6th September and is free to any person who feels isolated and alone with debts that are overwhelming. It can be accessed here.
Ditch Debt with Dignity also offers a free, non-judgemental, confidential and professional advice service delivered by a team of experienced debt advisors. For more information on how they can help with debt repayment plans and provide a positive and fresh perspective for the future, contact info@ditchdebtwithdignity.com.
As a charity Ditch Debt with Dignity relies on grants and donations to continue to deliver financial advice services, and these can be made here. There is also a volunteer opportunity available. Further information is available here.