Debt Awareness Week 2026
Debt Awareness Week is all about taking the pressure out of your finances by starting the conversation to help turn unmanageable problem debt into a clear and actionable plan for the future…
Taking the pressure out of debt
Debt awareness week is an opportunity to talk openly about money, financial pressures and the importance of seeking support early.
Financial wellbeing is important to us all, debt and financial pressures are one of the biggest challenges that affect our mental health. They can cause stress, impact on our concentration and within policing, potentially affect our professional vetting requirements. The good news is that there is help, support and safe alternatives available.
Debt can affect anyone
Polling identifies that 50% of the UK population have experienced problem debt at some point in their lives. Life events including rising household and commuting costs, changes in family circumstances or interest rate increases can leave the most financially astute and responsible people struggling.
The initial response of most people is to manage this by relying on:
- Credit Cards
- Overdrafts
- Buy Now Pay Later schemes
- Short Term High Interest Loans
Whilst these often provide an initial solution, they unfortunately can quickly become expensive and difficult to manage.
The importance of taking action early
Ignoring debt or financial pressures rarely makes it easier. Acting early allows you most importantly to REGAIN CONTROL and this is likely to:
- Reduce Interest Costs
- Simplify Multiple Payments
- Protect your Credit Rating
- Reduce Financial Stress
Taking control and acting early can have a positive impact on additional professional elements such as vetting.
The hidden cost of borrowing
Most online lenders and credit cards charge significantly higher interest rates for their products. Failing to clear some credit card balances in full, even by 1p, can result in interest being applied to the overall balance for that month. This means that relatively small balances can grow quickly if only minimum repayments are made.
Research and choosing affordable borrowing options can make a huge difference to your financial stability.
Confidential support
One of the biggest barriers to seeking help or support is embarrassment or fear of judgement. At the Scottish Police Credit Union, we operate with complete confidentiality, if you are worried about your finances, even a simple conversation can help explore options and reduce pressure.
Recognising the need for help and support for those within policing to deal with debt and financial pressures, we have joined with the Scottish Police Federation (SPF) and Citizens Advice Bureau Motherwell & Wishaw to provide The Specialist Money Advice Service.
This is a free, confidential and independent service that can provide advice on a range of issues including debt, debt solutions, benefits and other matters. This has been designed as a holistic service and people within policing can refer themselves or contact either SPCU or SPF to be referred.
For more information about this service head to our Support page.
Simple steps to improve your financial wellbeing
During Debt Awareness Week, consider taking a few small steps:
- Check your credit report – You can do this for free using ClearScore
- Review your monthly spending – Use our online financial statement if it helps
- Avoid High-Cost lenders – Always check the small print and compare the overall cost
- Speak to a trusted financial partner early – Contact a free debt charity or speak to us
You are not alone
Financial pressure is increasingly common, seeking help is a responsible step that protects both your personal well-being and professional future. If you need support or want to explore affordable borrowing options, the Scottish Police Credit Union is here to help.
Tel: 0141 771 1314
Email: info@scottishpolicecu.co.uk