Government figures have revealed that 133 people in debt in Wokingham entered into the Breathing Space scheme in 2025, as the high cost of living continued to impact households locally.
National Debtline– one of the debt advice charities able to enter people into the scheme – has warned that even more people in Wokingham may need support this year as costs rise further and the impact of global events hits bills.
Also known as the Debt Respite Scheme, Breathing Space gives people struggling with debt legal protections, including a pause on creditor action and no interest or charges for up to 60 days. This gives people time to get free debt advice and come up with a plan for dealing with their debts. Since the scheme was introduced in 2021, 592 people in Wokingham have used the scheme to get this vital debt help.
The pressures facing households in Wokingham mirror what is happening nationally. In England and Wales, one in every 550 adults (equivalent to 89,132 people) entered into Breathing Space last year.
As separate figures from the Money and Pensions Service reveal 15% of people in Wokingham are in need of debt advice, National Debtline is urging anyone worried about their finances to contact their debt advisers for free, independent advice as soon as possible.
Jack Sporcic, a debt adviser from National Debtline, said: Behind every Breathing Space application is someone trying to find a way to cope.
“At National Debtline, we’re hearing from people who have never struggled with their finances before, but rising costs have pushed them into difficulty.
“Breathing Space gives people time and protection and our advisers can help people understand if it is right for them.
“Everyone’s situation is different and even if you aren’t eligible for this specific scheme, our advisers will help you find the best option for you.”
Recent research with people helped by National Debtline highlights that after speaking to an adviser, four in five callers saw their debts reduce or stabilise and three in four reported a positive impact on their emotional and mental wellbeing.
Jack continued: “No one should be worrying about debt alone.
“We urge anyone in Wokingham worried about their finances to contact National Debtline as early as possible.”
