Creditors must ‘Stop the debt threats’

May 22, 2019 / 0 comments

This week, the Liberal Democrat MP for North Norfolk, Norman Lamb led a debate at Westminster in support of the Money and Mental Health Institute’s ‘Stop the Debt Threats’ campaign. The campaign is targeting the use of threatening letters used by creditors to get people in debt to pay up.

Debt threat letters from creditors push more people in debt to attempt suicide each year.

The research revealed the shocking number of people who attempt to take their own lives each year is as high as 100,000. While there are a wide range of reasons which contribute to people becoming suicidal, one factor which can make people feel there is no way out is letters from creditors.

People receiving treatment for serious mental health issues should be given a reprieve from being hassled by creditors to stop them becoming trapped by spiralling debts, MPs have said.

This would be welcome. It doesn’t account, however, for many thousands of people who are struggling with debt who are not receiving any treatment or help with mental health problems. Many people in debt do not seek help. They struggle on under enormous stress. Many have anxiety and depression. They may not even realise it. People can become totally unable to function properly as the worry takes over.

Debt advisors on the frontline.

Good debt advisors, like Ramsey Lomax, who talk to hundreds of people every month are maybe more aware of the stress people in debt face. And we only talk to the ones who have made the first step of looking for help and advice. Many. Living in ‘financial fear’ feel unable to seek help.

Threatening letters from creditors just don’t help.

Helen Undy, chief executive of the Money and Mental Health Policy Institute, said: “The rules on debt collection letters were meant to ensure that people know their rights and where to get help, but they’re having the opposite effect. Instead, the intimidating and threatening language of these letters can leave people hopeless and unsure where to turn.

“But a simple change in these out-of-date rules could genuinely save lives. We’re very grateful that Norman Lamb is leading this debate to highlight these issues, and that MPs from across the political spectrum are supporting it. Now we need the Government to act. It can’t continue to sit by and allow these intimidating letters to ruin people’s lives.”

Previously Undy said:

“When you’re in a mental health crisis – potentially feeling suicidal, hearing voices or experiencing panic attacks – it can be hard to cope with day-to-day life or to keep yourself safe.

“So for most people, getting debt advice or dealing with the threat of bailiffs at the door is an impossible task?

We must help more people take that first step to get help. Finding a good debt advisor is one way. Debt advisors like Ramsey Lomax work hard, not just to give the best advise possible, but to do it with understanding and compassion. No one asks to be in debt and it can be harrowing. It is vital to listen to each person’s story and to find the best solution for each individual based on their unique circumstances. At Ramsey Lomax, we do just that.

RAMSEY LOMAX

If you are struggling with debt problems, Ramsey Lomax can help. contact Ramsey Lomax.

Ramsey Lomax.

“over 12 years of dedicated advice.”

“People struggling with debt should seek help as early as possible.”

This is good advice from a leading debt charity. Taking the first step is always difficult but it is vital. There is help out there and solutions that can help, but you need to take the first step towards getting good debt advice. We have listened to the stories of 1000s of people and are constantly striving to help them. It is our mission to explore all their options and find a solution to help them become debt free. And what’s more, we have helped 1000s to achieve their goals since 2007, over 12 years of dedicated advice.