Behind the MoneyPlus People: 5 stars for Wayne Last month, Wayne supported a customer who had been struggling to manage their finances following a decline in their mental health. Wayne is one of our debt advisors and he’s been working in the debt advice industry for seven years – the past two years being at…
Why not being able to afford everything doesn’t make you a bad parent If you feel like a bad parent because you can’t afford things, it doesn’t mean you’re failing your children. It may mean your money is stretched. Your income might not go as far as it used to. Debt repayments may be taking…
I feel like I’m failing at life because of money Debt, missed payments or a lack of savings can feel deeply personal. They can start to look like evidence that life has not gone the way it should have. You may look at your bank balance, rent, bills, or the things you haven’t managed to…
My partner doesn’t know I’m in debt. What should I do? Being in debt without your partner knowing can feel frightening. You might be worried they’ll be angry, disappointed, or that it could change how they see you. Debt can feel even harder when you’re carrying it alone. You may be hiding letters, avoiding conversations,…
Skipping meals to pay bills: what to do if you can’t afford food and bills Skipping meals so you can pay bills is a sign that your budget is under serious pressure. It doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It means the cost of essentials may now be more than your income can cover. Recent research from…
How to talk to kids about money Talking to children about money can feel uncomfortable, especially if money feels tight in your own household. You might worry they’re too young or feel unsure what to say. You don’t need to be an expert to talk to kids about money in a helpful way. The most…
Why do I compare myself to others financially? It’s hard not to compare your finances to other people’s. It can sometimes feel like everyone else is doing better with money — saving more, spending more comfortably, or moving ahead faster. You might see a friend buying a house, a colleague going on holiday, or someone…
Recent data from The Money Charity shows that the average total household debt levels in the UK reached £67,350 in January 2026 and the average debt level per individual is £34,774. These figures reflect a very real trend: debt levels are continuing to rise across the UK, and more people are feeling the pressure in…
10 common reasons why people get into debt in the UK People get into debt in the UK for many reasons – often due to changes in income, rising living costs, health issues, or unexpected life events. We know that debt doesn’t always come from poor choices. For many, it starts when circumstances change and…
What happens when debts aren’t paid in the UK: a step-by-step guide Debt doesn’t usually spiral overnight. It often starts with a missed payment, a letter left unopened, or a period where money is simply stretched too thin. Many people who fall behind on payments didn’t expect to be in debt in the first place. If you’re unsure how your situation…
What’s the difference between gross and disposable income? When you’re trying to get a handle on your finances, it’s easy to get confused by the terms flying around, especially when it comes to your income. But what do the terms ‘gross income’, ‘net income’ and ‘disposable income’ actually mean, and more importantly, which one tells…
When the cost of everyday essentials keeps rising, it’s easy to feel like your money simply doesn’t stretch far enough anymore. If you’re struggling to cover food, bills or rent, you’re not alone. Many households across the UK are facing exactly the same challenge. This guide will explain why the cost of living has become…