Simple Debt Solutions

Advice for Army personnel: Financial Difficulties and Debt Counselling

If you are experiencing debt problems, it’s important that you seek help as soon as possible to resolve any issues you may be having. Many people feel ashamed or embarrassed, but ignoring the problem will only make the situation worse.
Normally, Army service personnel who are having financial difficulties should contact their Line Manager, who will be able to provide initial guidance and or advice, depending on the seriousness of the problem. Also, Unit pay staff can provide basic advice on personal finances and, in particular, the impact of pay and allowance matters on income.
Army personnel who are experiencing difficulties with their personal finances are often reluctant to raise any problems with their line management in the belief that such an admission may damage their career and lead to their discharge on the grounds of financial irresponsibility. There may be some security-related circumstances where an individual will need to inform the Service authorities about his or her problems. Codes of confidentiality will usually protect cases presented to Service community support agencies.
It is recognised that there are unique demands and challenges that face service personnel in the Army. To help with debt management and other financial issues, Simple Debt Solutions have set-up a specialist Armed Forces debt advice team who will be able to offer impartial, confidential debt advice. You can contact our team on 0800 389 5959.

In addition, you may be able to get debt advice from:

The Confidential Support Line (CSL)
The CSL is a free, contracted out service operated by the Soldiers', Sailors' and Airmen's Families Association (SSAFA) on the Army's behalf for soldiers and their families.

The HIVE Information Service (HIVE)
HIVE is a tri-Service information network available to all members of the Service community and is available to serving personnel both married and single, together with their families and dependants, as well as civilians employed by the Services.

The Army Welfare Support Service (AWS)
The AWS is a professional and confidential welfare support service for service personnel and their families wherever they are located.

The Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) Forces Help
SSAFA-Forces Help is the national charity set up to help all serving and ex-Service men, women and their families in need. It provides financial assistance and debt advice but also offers practical as well as financial support.

It is easy to get into a state with financial and debt issues, and to make the problem worse by not sharing the burden and seeking help. Here are some positive things you can do:

• Try not to feel guilty or threatened, even when people are trying to be aggressive
• Avoid the mistake of borrowing more money to pay off existing debts; this will lead to even more problems, unless you have taken responsible, independent advice
• Make a list of all your creditors and debts
• Prepare an accurate statement of your financial position, detailing your income, living expenses and other commitments, and the balance (if any) available to clear your debt
• Contact your creditors to make them aware of your situation; you will find that they will usually respond sympathetically to genuine problems once they are aware of them.
• Talk things through with your family and friends; you will find that your problems are easier to handle when you have shared your problems and can work together to find a solution.