Breathing Space A Scheme for Debt Relief

Short-term relief from your creditors as you seek a solution.

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What is breathing space?

Breathing Space is a scheme introduced in 2021 across England and Wales to assist consumers facing problem debt.

There are two types of Breathing Space, both providing temporary protection from debt collection while you work on managing your outstanding debt.

During this period, your creditors will halt all collection efforts and freeze interest and charges. In return, you are required to report any changes in your circumstances and maintain regular payments, such as mortgage and tax payments.

Continue reading for more information on the different types of Breathing Space available.

Standard Breathing Space

This type of Breathing Space is designed for consumers dealing with problem debt. To qualify, you must apply through a registered debt advisor.

The benefits of this option include:

  • Creditors and debt collectors pause all contact.

  • Interest and charges are frozen for the duration of the scheme.

  • You have time to explore solutions without added pressure from creditors.

Standard Breathing Space lasts up to a maximum of 60 days. After the initial 30 days, a review will determine your eligibility for an extension.

Mental Health Breathing Space

This type of Breathing Space is designed for individuals facing debt while undergoing Mental Health Crisis treatment, such as being detained under the Mental Health Act.

If you qualify, you will receive the same protections as Standard Breathing Space, with some differences:

  • You can apply at any time during your Mental Health Crisis treatment.

  • It lasts for the duration of your treatment, plus an additional 30 days.

  • There’s no requirement to seek debt advice beforehand.

Who qualifies for breathing space?

Eligibility criteria for Breathing Space include:

  • You must not be in an insolvency solution (e.g., IVA, DRO, or Bankruptcy).

  • You must reside in England or Wales.

  • You cannot have used Standard Breathing Space in the past 12 months.

  • You must agree not to incur any additional credit exceeding £500 while on the scheme.

Interested in applying for the Breathing Space Debt Respite Scheme?

If you‘re struggling with your debts and meet the above qualifying criteria, then:

  • For Standard Breathing Space:

    You need to apply through a registered debt advisor who will contact your creditors for you.

  • For Mental Health Crisis Breathing Space:

    You will need to apply through a mental health professional.

Debt and Mental Health:

Dealing with debt can be extremely stressful. If you believe your financial situation is affecting your health, help is available.

We’ve compiled information to help you identify the signs that you might be struggling, along with additional support options that you can access.

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