Money and debt

Money can be a huge worry. If you don’t have enough money to meet your day to day living costs, or you’re struggling to pay your bills, we can help you find the right support.

• If you’re struggling with unmanageable debt, you’re not alone. Getting help to manage your debts can make you feel better and more in control of your finances. Get free debt advice from one of the national organisations listed on  GOV.UK.
• Contact local organisations such as Advice Portsmouth or Citizens Advice Portsmouth to talk about your concerns and help you work out what’s best to do.
• Use this step by step guide from worryingaboutmoney.co.uk to help you find local support in Portsmouth.
• If you’re a council tenant, your local housing office can help.

If gambling is affecting you, or someone close to you, visit our gambling harms page to find support and advice.

What is a loan shark?

A loan shark is an illegal money lender who operates without official authorisation from financial regulators, such as the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). They usually target vulnerable people who cannot get credit or loans through high street banks.

Loan sharks will charge high interest rates and often take other illegal action to collect the money they’ve lent you, such as threatening violence or taking away your credit cards or valuables.

How can you protect yourself from loan sharks?

• Before borrowing money: Check that the lender is registered with the FCA
• If you are worried: Contact Stop Loan Sharks

Don’t get caught out by cost of living scams. From fake fuel vouchers, parking scams and phone bill discounts to dodgy supermarket offers and investment opportunities – find out how to recognise and report cost of living scams at Action Fraud

• Scammers can take advantage of government schemes like the energy bills support scheme. They trick people into giving out personal and bank details. Your energy provider will automatically apply the discount to your bills, or send you vouchers if you have a prepayment meter – you don’t need to do anything. Read more about help with your energy costs on the GOV.UK website.
• We’ve had reports of fake QR codes on parking machines and texts asking for money for Penalty Charge Notices. We never use QR codes for parking in Portsmouth, or send texts asking for payment for parking tickets. Do not follow these links.

• Visit our money advice pages for more information.