What the schemes are and how to apply.
Breathing Space is a government-backed scheme Go to https://www.gov.uk/options-for-dealing-with-your-debts/breathing-space (opens new window) (GOV.UK) giving temporary protection from most types of debt collection.
There are 2 types of Breathing Space: Standard Breathing Space and Mental Health Crisis Breathing Space.
Standard Breathing Space
It gives up to 60 days of protection from creditors. During this time:
- interest and fees on qualifying debts are frozen
- enforcement action is paused
- creditors cannot contact you about debts included in the scheme
Who can apply
To be eligible, you must:
- live in England or Wales
- have at least one qualifying debt, such as credit cards, rent arrears or council tax
- not currently be in a Debt Relief Order (DRO), Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA), bankruptcy, or subject to an interim order
- not have used the scheme in the past 12 months
How to apply
Applications must be made through a regulated debt adviser. In Bristol, you can contact the following debt advice agencies.
Talking Money
Free, independent debt advice and financial support.
Website: www.talkingmoney.org.uk Go to https://www.talkingmoney.org.uk (opens new window)
Phone: 0117 954 3990
Bristol Citizens Advice
Offers free, confidential advice on debt and money matters.
Website: www.bristolcab.org.uk Go to https://www.bristolcab.org.uk (opens new window)
Phone: 0808 278 7957
ACFA – The Advice Network
A directory of local advice organisations in Bristol.
Website: www.acfa.org.uk Go to https://www.acfa.org.uk (opens new window)
You can also find national support through:
- Money Helper Go to https://www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en (opens new window)
- Step Change Go to https://www.stepchange.org/ (opens new window)
- National Debt line Go to https://nationaldebtline.org/ (opens new window)
Mental Health Crisis Breathing Space
Available to individuals receiving crisis treatment for mental health. It offers extended protection and lasts for the duration of treatment plus 30 days.
You do not need to engage with a debt adviser during this time but an approved mental health professional must confirm your eligibility.
How to apply
If you're receiving crisis treatment and are struggling with debt, speak to a healthcare professional involved in your care about whether they can help you to apply.
Find more information on mental health breathing space Go to https://mentalhealthandmoneyadvice.org/managing-money/what-are-my-options-for-dealing-with-debt/what-is-breathing-space/ (opens new window).
Find contacts and support on our mental health services for adults and older people page.