I have a lot of debt. I would say maybe £15k all combined - credit cards , catalogues etc as well as arrears with utilities. I won’t bore with the details . 2 income household , rent, children. Had a bad time ( that was not our fault nor could it be predicted ) that massively affected us financially and led to us relying on credit .
Now, we’re getting back on our feet slowly. We are focusing on the utilities ( inc council tax ) and have payment plans set up. At present I can’t afford to pay the ones that are now with debt collection agencies . I am trying to set up small amounts but things like £5 per month and I’m in the process of getting support from step change.
Today I had a debt collector call. I was not in, I was at work, I have emailed this company as they have warned me they were sending someone but they do not respond , I work so haven’t been able to call and they will only allow me to set up a very unaffordable payment plan. This is what I’m feeling angry about :
The agent knocked my door , waited, then knocked my neighbours door and asked them about me - if I still live there , am I in. I am mortified . They had a lanyard and ID badge on so it’s clear where they are from so now my neighbour knows my business . I rent and , although unlikely , what if they mention this to my landlord ? They likely won’t , we get on well , but why would the agent do that? What right do they have to speak to my neighbours like that? The letter says if I don’t contact it will go further - attachment of earnings , ccj etc , so they could have just posted it and if they heard nothing they will go ahead . I can only think it’s a form of pressure - to embarrass me into paying? If I had the money I would pay but I don’t.
Im sure some will say that it’s my own fault but believe me this isn’t a situation I want to be in and I am trying .