Useful Links

The Association of British Credit Unions Ltd (ABCUL) is the main trade association for credit unions in England, Scotland and Wales. It provides a range of services to its members including products and affinity schemes; information, conferences and training; and representation to Governments and the media. 

Step Change Debt Charity is a registered charity offering free, confidential advice and support to anyone who is worried about debt. Their free counselling and debt advice can help people get in control of their finances and move forward with their lives. Depending on circumstances, they can also provide a range of debt solutions, including IVAs, debt relief orders or a no-fee debt management plan. 

Directgov - public services all in one place

Money Advice Scotland (MAS) is the national umbrella organisation which promotes the development of free, independent, impartial, confidential money (debt) advice and financial inclusion. If you are a debt adviser in the free sector in Scotland, you can access Wiseradviser training through this site which is free of charge. You can also book places at seminars and conferences. If you are a member of the public in Scotland, you can access information on your nearest debt adviser.

The Money Advice Service exists to help everyone manage their money better. They do this by giving clear, unbiased money advice to help people make informed choices.

The Health Check is the Money Advice Service’s new online money planner. In less than ten minutes you can get a personal action plan with the steps you can take to help take control of your money now, and how to plan for future goals.

Mind is the leading mental health charity in England and Wales. They campaign vigorously to create a society that promotes and protects good mental health for all - a society where people with experience of mental distress are treated fairly, positively and with respect. They have a section of their website dedicated to helping people with mental health issues manage their money.

Northern Money currently covers the North East and Cumbria and allows people to find credit unions and affordable credit providers in their local area using a simple postcode search. Northern Money also acts as an information sharing and awareness raising resource for partner credit unions. Best practice and resources are shared within the group to the benefit of the partner credit unions and their members.

Payplan provide free debt advice and free debt solutions for anyone experiencing financial difficulties, whatever the circumstance or situation. They’re impartial and non-judgemental and their advice is free, confidential and available now. They have expertise in offering a full range of debt solutions including free Debt Management plans (DMPs) and Individual Voluntary Arrangements (IVAs) which can be tailored to suit personal circumstances.

The England Illegal Money Lending Team investigate and prosecute illegal money lending and related activity, working in partnership with Trading Standards Authorities up and down the country. Alongside a team of specialist investigators, a team of LIAISE officers work in partnership with local agencies, raising awareness of the dangers of borrowing from illegal money lenders and providing support for victims of this crime. Anyone with information about illegal money lending activity is urged to call a confidential hotline on 0300 555 2222.