Help to get on top of debt

However much you owe, we can offer support to help you take control of your finances and look forward to brighter start this new year.

Our experts are here to help you manage your debt in a single, simple and straightforward process, providing support at every step. We can also help you get on top of other overdue council bills. It is a free, confidential service open to all local residents.

The Homes Team can help with debts related to housing rent, council tax, and benefit overpayments by working with you to set up a simple repayment strategy to get on top of the debt. The Personal Team assists with debts related to care services, both residential and non-residential. For businesses and organisations, the Commercial Team focuses on managing debts such as business rates, commercial rent, and waste services.

And for anyone who needs any extra support to better manage their finances such as elderly or vulnerable people, our Engagement Officers are on hand to provide one to one personal advice and assistance.

If you, or anyone you know, is struggling to pay your rent or other council bills please contact the Debt Management Centre today for free advice and support by:

• Email: dmc.general@southampton.gov.uk 
• Telephone: 023 8083 3388

Expert tips about money and debt

Our experts have shared their top tips for anyone worried about money and debt this Christmas:

Don’t bury your head in the sand. Ignoring a debt will only make the issue worse. Talk to our Debt Management Team and we can offer friendly and supportive advice to help work out a way forward together.

Remember that priority bills like your rent and utility bills have to be paid or you could face legal action and ultimately lose your home. It’s a good idea to set up a Direct Debit for priority bills to stay on top of these payments.

Keep in control of your finances by using a Budget Planner to help organise your incomings and outgoings. This is especially important at Christmas when there is a big temptation to overspend on festive treats.

Don’t be tempted to borrow from a loan shark. Not only do these illegal lenders charge extortionate interest rates, they often resort to violence and intimidation to recover the money.