Let’s talk about debt

Debt becoming a worry? Our user support champion, Oli, breakdowns what you can do.

Debt. There, I said it. Debt isn’t exactly anyone’s idea of fun reading – but give me a minute, this might just make it feel a whole lot less heavy.

For many of us, we try not to think about it at all. But here’s the truth: two in three Lightning Reach users are dealing with debt, and many are struggling with essentials like rent, energy and council tax. Debt isn’t rare or shameful – it’s just a fact of life for a lot of people in 2025.

This Talk Money Week (3 - 7th November) is a reminder that talking about money doesn’t have to feel uncomfortable. It’s about making that first small step towards feeling lighter – and getting the right help to do it.

Why talking about it matters

Talk Money Week is a UK-wide campaign encouraging everyone to open up about money - saving, spending, and yes, debt. It’s all about breaking the silence that keeps so many people stuck.

Talking about debt can open doors to getting support. Once people know what’s really going on, you give them the chance to help - and there are plenty of organisations out there ready to do just that.

That might mean:

• Your energy or water supplier offering support schemes, reducing payments.

• Your council or housing association connecting you to extra financial support.

• A credit card, loan or mobile provider offering help through hardship teams.

Most companies want to help - they just need to know you’re struggling. Talking about debt turns silence into solutions.

How Lightning Reach can help you take action on debt

If you’re not sure where to start, Lightning Reach can help you take the first step, quickly and safely. By creating a profile, you can see which grants, hardship funds and debt support options you’re eligible for – all in one place.

Here’s how it works:

1. Sign up – it takes around 10 minutes to create your profile.

2. Get matched – you’ll see personalised options for debt support, grants, and advice.

3. Take action – reach out to trusted organisations ready to help you manage or reduce your debt.

Real people, real debt help

“I just can’t believe how quickly I got the support – this couldn’t have been quicker and more straightforward.”

Meet Sara. After a tough period, she couldn’t face her energy debt. She created a Lightning Reach account, connected with Octopus Energy, and after one honest chat, they halved her £3,600 debt.

Then there’s Susannah, who had built up rent arrears with her housing association. The debt weighed heavily on her, bringing anxiety and sleepless nights. Through Lightning Reach, she was linked to a teaching charity that cleared her arrears completely.

Both Sara and Susannah show what can happen when you take that small step to get help.

This Talk Money Week, see what help you can get

Debt doesn’t have to define you. Whether it’s a small balance or a mountain of bills, help is out there, and talking about it is the first step toward change.

This Talk Money Week, take that step. Sign up to the Lightning Reach Portal, see what support is waiting, and start turning debt into hope.

Create your account today at www.lightningreach.org/application-portal to see what you're eligible for.