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Raising Awareness for Debt Awareness Week: Breaking the Stigma Around Debt

15 March 2026

|  5 minutes

Each year, Debt Awareness Week provides an important opportunity to open conversations about money worries, challenge the stigma around debt, and highlight the support available to those who need it. Led by StepChange Debt Charity, this campaign encourages people to seek help early and reminds us that anyone can experience financial difficulties.
With new research revealing how widespread — and misunderstood — debt really is, raising awareness has never been more important.

Debt Is More Common Than You Think

Recent national polling shows that financial difficulty is far more widespread than many people realise:

  • Debt is common — More than half of people in the UK have experienced problem debt at some point in their lives.
  • Judgement fuels shame — Nearly 60% of people in debt feel others assume they are irresponsible.
  • Stigma keeps people silent — While many say they would talk about money worries, 44% of those who experienced debt told no one.

(Research conducted by Censuswide among 4,000 UK adults aged 18+, January 2026.)

These findings highlight a powerful truth: debt can affect anyone, but fear of judgement often stops people from seeking support. Debt Awareness Week aims to break down this barrier by encouraging open conversations and promoting access to free, confidential advice.

How StepChange Supports People in Debt

StepChange Debt Charity provides free, expert debt advice to hundreds of thousands of people each year. Their support is confidential, non-judgemental, and tailored to each individual’s circumstances.

The debt advice process typically includes:

  • Understanding your financial situation
  • Reviewing your income, spending, and debts
  • Exploring practical solutions
  • Creating a manageable plan to regain control

This video explains the full journey clients can expect when seeking help:

Seeking advice early can make a significant difference, helping people reduce stress and find a realistic path forward.

Breathing Space: Time to Focus on Solutions

For people feeling overwhelmed by debt, the UK government’s Breathing Space scheme offers vital short-term relief. The scheme provides:

  • 60 days without creditor contact
  • A pause on most interest, fees, and charges
  • Time to access professional debt advice and plan next steps

You can learn more about the scheme here:

Watch the video explainer:

This support gives people the time and space needed to focus on solutions without immediate financial pressure.

Why Raising Awareness Matters

Debt Awareness Week is about more than financial advice — it’s about changing attitudes. By challenging stigma and encouraging open conversations, we can help ensure that people feel safe seeking support when they need it.
Key messages to remember:

  • Debt can happen to anyone.
  • Seeking help is a positive step.
  • Free, confidential support is available.
  • Talking about money worries reduces isolation and stress.

Taking the First Step

If you or someone you know is struggling with debt, help is available. Debt Awareness Week reminds us that no one has to face financial difficulties alone. By raising awareness, sharing information, and encouraging open conversations, we can help break the silence around debt and support people in taking their first step toward financial wellbeing.