There are a lot of resources available online for debt advice - many of these, like those listed below, are free. But please remember to always check where this advice is coming from, and be sure that there are no hidden costs or contracts. When in doubt, always try to use a service that is recommended by the Money Advice Service or another impartial company. 

Below is a list of some of the first steps you can take to help yourself with debt or money concerns.

• Look at your income and expenditure by using our self-service benefit and budget calculator at the bottom of this page – you will also be able to forward this to the team to ask for further advice/assistance 
• Look at what benefits you may be able receive. More information can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/browse/benefits
• Many people are claiming Universal Credit. Remember, it is important that you check your account regularly and keep your journal up to date.
• The Money Advice Service offices a Debt Advice Locator which tells you where you can get free debt advice in your area. This is a really good tool to help you take control of your financial situation and feel less stressed and anxious - it can be found at: https://www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/en/tools/debt-advice-locator
• A lot of people have been impacted by Covid-19 – more information and advice is available at https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus.
• If you are a Platform customer and have been financially affected by Covid-19, some further information can be found on this website at: https://platformhg-redesign.verseonecloud.com/covid-19-rent-info - or you can speak to one of our team using the contact infomation above if you are struggling to pay your rent.