Take Control: A Step-by-Step Guide to Managing Debt

Course outline

A clear route from first principles to practical confidence

1. 01

   Facing the Numbers: Understanding Your Debt Situation

   • Why facing your debt is the first step to freedom
   • Gathering your paperwork: statements, bills, and credit reports
   • How to read a credit report from the main UK agencies
   • Calculating your total debt: a simple worksheet approach
   • Identifying different types of debt: secured, unsecured, and priority
2. 02

   Your Money Map: Building a Clear Budget

   • Tracking your income and essential outgoings
   • Using the 50/30/20 rule as a starting point
   • Finding hidden spending leaks and cutting costs
   • Creating a realistic budget you can stick to
   • Using free budgeting tools and apps
3. 03

   Know Your Rights: UK Debt Law and Your Protections

   • The Consumer Credit Act: your key protections
   • What creditors can and cannot do
   • Understanding interest, charges, and default notices
   • The role of the Financial Ombudsman Service
   • When to seek free legal advice
4. 04

   Prioritising Your Debts: The Snowball vs Avalanche Method

   • Why some debts must be paid first (priority debts)
   • The snowball method: small wins build momentum
   • The avalanche method: saving the most on interest
   • Comparing both methods with real-life examples
   • Deciding which approach is right for you
5. 05

   Talking to Creditors: How to Negotiate and Make Arrangements

   • Preparing for the call: what to have ready
   • How to ask for a payment holiday or reduced payments
   • Negotiating to freeze interest and charges
   • Putting agreements in writing: templates and tips
   • What to do if a creditor refuses to help
6. 06

   Debt Solutions in the UK: When to Use Them and How They Work

   • Debt Management Plans (DMPs): pros and cons
   • Individual Voluntary Arrangements (IVAs): what they involve
   • Debt Relief Orders (DROs): who qualifies
   • Bankruptcy: the last resort and its consequences
   • How to choose a reputable debt advice charity
7. 07

   Dealing with Debt Collectors and Bailiffs

   • Who are debt collectors and what powers do they have?
   • Your rights when a bailiff visits your home
   • How to challenge unfair fees and harassment
   • Writing a formal complaint letter
   • Getting help from the Citizens Advice Bureau
8. 08

   Protecting Your Home and Essentials

   • Mortgage and rent arrears: steps to avoid eviction
   • Council tax debt: what happens if you don't pay
   • Energy bills: payment plans and the Warm Home Discount
   • Hire purchase and car finance: your options
   • Prioritising food, heating, and housing costs
9. 09

   Rebuilding Your Credit Score After Debt

   • How your credit score is calculated in the UK
   • Checking your credit file for errors
   • Using a credit builder card responsibly
   • The impact of electoral roll registration
   • How long negative marks stay on your file
10. 10

    Staying on Track: Habits for Long-Term Financial Health

    • Setting up an emergency fund, even on a tight budget
    • Automating savings and payments
    • Avoiding common debt traps: payday loans, BNPL, and store cards
    • Reviewing your budget monthly
    • Celebrating milestones without overspending
11. 11

    When Life Changes: Managing Debt During Job Loss or Illness

    • What to do if you lose your job
    • Benefits and support available for debtors
    • How to pause payments during illness or maternity leave
    • Communicating changes to creditors quickly
    • Revising your budget and priorities
12. 12

    Your Future: Living Debt-Free and Staying Debt-Free

    • Reviewing your progress and adjusting your plan
    • Building a positive relationship with money
    • Teaching family members about debt awareness
    • Planning for big purchases without borrowing
    • Your debt-free celebration: a realistic reward