Most creditors want to treat you fairly and help you deal with your debt problems. Giving you time to get independent debt advice is an important part of this and will usually make the creditor’s job easier.
On top of this, a requirement to offer forbearance is included in the industry codes of practice that cover almost all of the major UK lenders and debt collectors. These include:
Credit Services Association code of practice
Finance & Leasing Association lending code
Lending Standard Board lending code (PDF)
If your creditor is a member of any of these organisations, they should give you forbearance if you tell them you’ve contacted us or another debt advice agency.
Other codes of practice may also include similar provisions to offer forbearance.