You have enough to do already, without also becoming a debt expert.

Instead, continue doing what you do best: providing good C.A.R.E.

Consider debt

Always consider debt as a possible underlying determinant of poor mental or physical health.

Ask about debt

People may be too embarrassed to discuss their financial difficulties. 

Ask questions about money worries as part of your routine practice and care planning; emphasise the value of money advice – early intervention can prevent a crisis.

Refer consenting clients to an expert money adviser

Find out which free and independent advice services are available.

Signpost or refer clients to these services as appropriate; consider your role in brokering the client’s relationship with the adviser.

Engage with advisers

Referring a client to a money adviser is the first step. Working with individual advisers can further improve a client’s financial and mental wellbeing.

You can help by:

• providing clear and relevant information about clients.
• reassuring the client about the advice process
• helping to build trust with the adviser
• regularly meeting the client to check how they are feeling and coping with the process.