What is Breathing Space?
If you’re struggling to keep up with debt repayments or feeling overwhelmed by creditor contact, the government’s Breathing Space scheme could give you the breathing room you need. It provides up to 60 days of temporary protection from most creditor action, giving you time to understand your options and get back on track without added pressure. Start your debt assessment Fees may apply. Your credit rating may be affected & details may be passed on to 3rd parties. T&Cs apply.
Why consider Breathing Space?
Protected from creditor action
Once you enter Breathing Space, creditors included in the scheme must stop contacting you, adding fees, or taking enforcement action.
Time to plan a solution
Breathing Space gives you up to 60 days of protection so you can work with a debt adviser to find the right long-term option.
Quick to set up
An application can usually be made the same day through a debt adviser, so protection starts almost immediately.
Prevent eviction or repossession
If you have rent or mortgage arrears, Breathing Space can pause eviction or repossession action while you get back on track.Why might Breathing Space not be for me?
Temporary relief only
Breathing Space only pauses creditor action for up to 60 days, so it’s not a permanent solution.
Not a payment break
You still need to keep up with ongoing bills and essential payments while in the scheme.
Eligibility limits
You can’t use it if you’ve had Standard Breathing Space in the past 12 months or if you’re already in another debt solution.
Credit record impact
Breathing Space won’t be listed on your credit file, but missed payments during this time will still harm your rating.Am I Eligible for Breathing Space?
You must apply through an authorised debt adviser to enter Breathing Space. Before applying you should consider whether:
You have qualifying debts such as credit cards, loans, overdrafts, rent or council tax arrears.
You haven’t used Standard Breathing Space in the past 12 months, unless applying under the mental health crisis scheme.
You can keep up with ongoing bills and payments, as these are not paused during Breathing Space.
Another debt solution might be more suitable if you need long-term protection beyond 60 days.
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FAQs
Have questions about managing unsecure debt? The Debt Advice Service is here to help with expert guidance on budgeting, repayment plans, and understanding your options. We provide clear, practical advice to help you take control of your finances.
What is Breathing Space?
Am I Eligible for Breathing Space?
What Are Qualifying Debts?
How to Apply for Breathing Space
Your Responsibilities During Breathing Space
What Happens After Breathing Space Ends?
Other Options for Dealing with Debt
The Debt Advice Service
We’re here to help you find out what your options are and to talk you through them in plain English.rnrnThe Debt Advice Service will provide you with information on all relevant debt solutions that may be available for you to make an informed choice based on your circumstances. If you wish to pursue a particular debt solution, we’ll either continue your application via our in-house insolvency practitioner or put you in contact with a trusted partner to progress your application further.