StepChange Debt Charity

Our CEO Vikki Brownridge has written for the Big Issue on what drives consumer household debt.   Traditionally, we saw the majority of our clients facing a "life shock" which pushed them into arrears, but now we are seeing clients coming to us simply unable to manage the rising cost of living and the impact on their household finances.   As a priority, we want to see the new Government work proactively to build financial resilience and ensure people manage to afford the essentials.   https://lnkd.in/ewi3j3-E

📢 Speaker Announcement! 📢 StepChange Connected 2024. We are delighted to announce that Nikhil Rathi, Chief Executive at the Financial Conduct Authority will be delivering a keynote address at our partner event, StepChange Connected 2024. StepChange Connected is all about working together to change the lives of people in financial difficulty. One year on from its introduction, Nikhil will share his reflections on how Consumer Duty is supporting better customer outcomes and take questions from our partner audience. As in 2023, StepChange Connected is expected to be oversubscribed. If you are interested in attending then you can register for our waiting list and we’ll let you know if spaces are available. Register here: https://bit.ly/SCConnected We’ll be announcing more speakers in the very near future and we can’t wait to welcome our partners on the day. #StepChangeConnected #workingtogether #debtadvice #Leeds

King Charles III recently set out the new Government’s legislative agenda in the #KingsSpeech, unveiling over 40 new bills. Our Public Affairs Advisor, Sophie M., highlights three bills impacting those struggling with problem debt and share what we hope to see next from the new Government. https://lnkd.in/eZ4vZYus

We're proud to have supported Leeds Pride this weekend! Pride is more than just a celebration - it's a commitment to diversity, inclusion and respect for all. Thank you to our colleagues for making this a wonderful day! Find more of our photos and videos of the day in the comments 👇

We'll shortly be tuning into the #KingsSpeech to find out the top priorities for the new government. We hope to see a strong commitment to improving the lives of those struggling with problem debt. Chief Client Officer Richard Lane shares more below

A third expect household spending to increase in the next three months, according to StepChange Debt Charity https://lnkd.in/eRBK6QTJ

Thanks Consumer Credit Awards by Smart Money People and Credit Connect UK and everyone who voted for us! 💜🏆

We’ve recently teamed up with GamCare’s lived experience community to enhance our client experience 🙌   GamCare community members have shared crucial insights into their experiences with gambling dependency, helping us shape the online services we provide at StepChange. These participants have collaborated with our Product and Marketing teams to user test early design concepts, using their feedback to inform a series of new features planned for the StepChange website.   Our Research Manager, Gabrielle Ferry, said, “The insights from GamCare’s community have been invaluable in helping us understand the specific needs, behaviours, and mindsets of people facing gambling harms. This collaboration is vital in our commitment to delivering an inclusive service that reflects the diverse needs of our users. We look forward to working closely with the GamCare panel again in the future.”   To find out more about GamCare and their work providing gambling harm support, visit their website at gamcare.org.uk

Our congratulations to Keir Starmer and the Labour Party on their General Election victory. Back in June, we launched our manifesto calling for the following to be prioritised to help those in problem debt: 🏠 A safer Private Rented Sector 💷 A financial resilience strategy 💻 Support for debt advice 🛑 Effective bailiff regulation We look forward to building relationships with the new Government to achieve these goals. https://lnkd.in/edubQ28X

Last week, we had the pleasure of hosting Lloyds Banking Group senior leadership team at our StepChange Debt Charity HQ in Leeds. One of the highlights of the day was a recognition and panel session, brilliantly hosted by Ricky Diggins. Ricky's session resonated deeply with everyone in attendance. He provided a thoughtful update on his role, shared his perspective on our invaluable partnership, and extended heartfelt thanks to the team for their dedication to supporting consumers. Ricky's reflections on the calls he had listened to and the similarities he noted in our journeys underscored the shared commitment we have towards helping those in financial difficulty. It's moments like these that remind us of the strength and positivity in our collaboration. Here's to continuing our impactful work together and making a difference for those who need it most. #debtadvice #workingtogether #recognition