If you’re struggling to manage money, help is available and asking for it isn’t a sign of failure. It’s a strong, practical step in the right direction. Whether you’ve found yourself juggling bills, dipping into overdrafts or credit card debt too often, or feeling like things are slipping out of your control, you’re not alone.
Across the UK, thousands of people feel the same way. You might be managing money badly through no fault of your own – rising living costs, sudden changes in circumstances, or simply never being taught how to budget can all have an impact. What matters now is taking that first step towards sorting things out.
This guide is here to show you that needing support with finances is nothing to be ashamed of. In fact, it could be the smartest move you make.
Why managing money can feel overwhelming
Money isn’t just about numbers – it’s deeply tied to how we live, how we feel, and what we can plan for. If you’re struggling, it may be because:
- Your income doesn’t cover your essential costs
- Unexpected expenses have thrown your budget off track
- You’ve had a change in circumstances, like job loss, illness, or separation
- You’ve relied on credit to get by and now it’s building up
- You’ve never been shown how to budget or prioritise spending.
No matter the reason, falling behind financially doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It means life has thrown challenges your way and you’re human.
The shame trap – and how to escape it
Shame is one of the biggest barriers to getting debt help. You might feel embarrassed about not coping, or guilty for decisions you’ve made. But the truth is, managing money badly is often a result of difficult situations, not bad character.
If you’ve been keeping things to yourself or hiding the problem, know this: asking for help isn’t a last resort but a responsible, proactive step. And the sooner you reach out, the more options you’ll have.
Spot the signs you might need support with finances
Sometimes it’s hard to tell when your financial situation has crossed into a problem. These signs could mean it’s time to seek support:
- You feel anxious opening post or checking your bank account
- You’re borrowing money to cover regular expenses
- You’re missing payments on bills or credit cards
- You avoid thinking about money because it feels too stressful
- You’ve lost track of how much you owe.
Even one or two of these signs are enough to take action. Getting support now can stop things getting worse later.
How getting help puts you back in control
Many people think that once you admit you need help, things get taken out of your hands. But in reality, seeking support can help you regain control. At MoneyPlus, we work with you to:
- Understand your financial situation fully
- Explain what your rights and options are
- Build a clear plan for moving forward.
This isn’t about handing your finances over to someone else. It’s about getting expert guidance so you can make informed decisions.
What kind of money help is available in the UK?
There are a number of practical options depending on your situation:
- A Debt Management Plan (DMP) lets you pay off your debts in affordable monthly instalments
- An Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA) is a legally binding agreement that may reduce what you owe
- Budgeting support helps you manage day-to-day finances more effectively
- Debt advice shows you what’s available without any pressure.
Our advisers help you explore all these options and decide what’s right for you. And we’ll only ever recommend a solution that fits your needs.
Common myths about managing money
When you feel like you’re managing money badly, it’s easy to believe things that aren’t true. Let’s clear up a few myths:
- Myth: “I should be able to handle this on my own.”
No one teaches us how to deal with complex finances. Getting advice is smart, not weak.
- Myth: “It’s too late to fix this.”
It’s almost never too late. Even if you’ve missed payments or received court letters, help is still available.
- Myth: “My debts aren’t big enough to matter.”
If your money problems are affecting your wellbeing, they matter – no matter the amount.
How budgeting fits into the solution
You don’t have to become an expert overnight. But even a simple monthly budget can help you:
- See where your money is going
- Prioritise essential payments like rent, energy and food
- Identify areas where you can cut back or save.
If budgeting feels overwhelming, one of our advisers can walk you through it.
It’s OK to ask for help more than once
Sometimes, you try to sort things out and it doesn’t go to plan. Maybe you spoke to someone before but didn’t follow through. Maybe things got better, then worse again. That’s OK.
Reaching out again shows determination, not defeat. Whether it’s your first time seeking support, or your fifth, you’ll be met with the same respect and practical help.
Getting support with your finances is a strength
If you’re struggling to manage money, help is available and getting it is one of the best things you can do for yourself. Services like MoneyHelper offer free debt advice and support.
Alternatively, you can get in touch with MoneyPlus. Here’s what happens when you speak to one of our debt advisers:
- We’ll listen without judgement and ask a few simple questions
- We’ll help you understand what you owe and who to
- We’ll talk you through realistic solutions
- We’ll support you to make a plan that works for you.
We’re regulated and experienced, and we offer a range of personalised debt solutions without any pressure or obligation.
