Breathing Space: 60 days without pressure
A statutory pause on interest, charges and enforcement while you work out your next move.
What it does
The Breathing Space scheme in England and Wales gives you up to 60 days where creditors must stop adding interest and charges and pause enforcement action. A longer version exists for people receiving mental health crisis treatment.
How to get it
You apply through a debt adviser rather than directly. Scotland has a comparable mechanism through the moratorium available under the Debt Arrangement Scheme.
What it is not
It is a pause, not a solution. The debts remain, and you are expected to keep paying ongoing bills. Use the time to choose a route rather than to wait.
Want to know which routes are open to you?
Four questions and a shortlist. No calls unless you ask for one.
Check my optionsMay not be suitable in all circumstances. Fees apply and your credit rating may be affected. Arcadia is an information service — always consider free, independent advice before deciding.