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Helping you deal with debt

You need to pay your rent or service charges regularly and on time but we understand that sometimes it can be a struggle.

If you get into arrears you need to pay them off as quickly as you can. If you consistently don't pay your rent you could be evicted. If you are a leaseholder and you don't pay your service charges on time, you may be subject to foreiture proceedings.

We have a range of advice services to help you manage your budget - and they' completely FREE.

If you've got money worries call us TODAY on 0115 915 4920 or visit your local housing office and we'll arrange a free impartial appointment with our Debt Advice Service.

You'll be able to find out more about how to manage your money, if there are any benefits you can claim and they will help you to negotiate with the people you owe money to.

Problems paying your rent - text us for FREE

If you have a problem with your rent or have too many debts to pay, we can help. Text RENT, follow it with a space, your payment reference number and your message to 80800. Its completely free and we will get back to you to discuss your situation.

What you should do

Please don't ignore the problem - the debt won't go away. The longer you leave it the worse it gets.

• Don't borrow more money to pay off your old debts - forget the glossy adverts on TV about help with debt. Get advice first. Borrowing more could lead to you getting further in debt and possibly losing your home.
• Work out your personal budget - make sure you show it or send it to your creditors when you tell them about your difficulties.
• Get in touch with your creditors straight away - contact everyone you owe money to and tell them about your problems.
• Make sure you tackle your priority debts first - always make sure you pay your rent first or you could lose your home. You then need to pay your council tax, water, gas and electricity.
  
• Always attend court hearings, if summoned - take a copy of your financial statement with you. Going to County Court does not make you a criminal.

Always keep copies of any letters or forms you send or receive.

Housing and council tax benefit

If you are living on a low income you may be entitled to claim housing benefit and council tax benefit. Go to our information on housing benefit to find out more. You could also try using our benefits calculator. It will help you work out how much you may be able to claim (although this is only a guide - what you get may differ).

For more information

Read our leaflets on:

• How to pay your rent
• Debt advice
• Debt advice self help pack
• Home insurance
• Direct Debit application form