Debt Assist

Croydon Council is introducing Debt Assist, a managed support service that helps residents deal with council debts in a constructive way. 

Debt Assist helps residents to address the root cause of debt, whether this involves helping maximise income with benefits, discounts or social tariffs. 

Where appropriate, residents are also referred to an external accredited debt triage partner, who provide professional support with managing and resolving debt challenges. It is separate from enforcement action and aims to work with residents to find affordable solutions.

Croydon Council has partnered with Liberata to deliver Debt Assist. Liberata acts on behalf of the council when contacting residents about this service. 

Where necessary, relevant information about your council debt may be shared with Liberata so they can provide support and help agree repayment arrangements. This information is handled in accordance with data protection legislation. 

Why we are introducing Debt Assist

Council debt affects vital local services. By adopting Debt Assist, Croydon Council is taking action to recover outstanding debts while supporting residents to manage their money more effectively. 

By helping residents to maximise their income, or tailoring payment plans to meet their needs, Debt Assist aims to help residents manage their debts more sustainably and reduce the financial stress debt can bring.

What will happen

If you have council debt, Liberata will:

• contact you and ask about your income and spending
• work with you to agree a repayment plan you can afford
• help you identify benefits, discounts and other support you may be entitled to
• review your repayment plan if your circumstances change

You may be referred to independent debt advice if you need extra support.

Visit Debt Assist to pay your balance in full.  

If you cannot pay your debt in full, contact 0203 832 6046 to discuss a repayment arrangement.

Check if you can increase your income

If you're finding it difficult to keep up with your bills, check whether you're entitled to extra financial support.

You may be able to get help through:

• benefits you are not currently claiming
• council tax discounts or exemptions
• social tariffs for utility and broadband bills
• other local and national support schemes

Get advice about debt

If you're worried about debt or have missed payments, you can get free, confidential and independent debt advice from the Money Advice Service.