New research from Trust Deed Scotland reveals that stigma, silence, and sleepless nights continue to define Scotland’s debt crisis and that almost everyone who has struggled with unaffordable debt and sought help with us now wishes they had reached out for help sooner.
In 2024 & 2025, we were Scotland’s largest provider of statutory Scottish debt solutions. Recently, we launched our biggest-ever national awareness campaign to encourage people across the country who are struggling with problem debt to seek support earlier, before the pressure becomes overwhelming and the situation harder to face.
Our campaign is being heard nationwide on radio and seen across outdoor advertising in bus shelters and on billboards. At its centre is a striking 3D phone displaying the average debt of people who come to us for help. A stark, impossible-to-ignore symbol of a problem that too many people still feel forced to hide behind closed doors.
The campaign is backed by insightful new findings from our latest customer survey of 2,829 people, offering one of the clearest pictures yet of how problem debt impacts lives across Scotland. not only financially, but emotionally and mentally too. The findings underline just how long many people endure the strain in silence before seeking support, and how different life can look once they finally do.
As shared with several publications, including Evening Times and The National, the research highlights a powerful and consistent message: delaying debt advice often prolongs the stress, while taking that first step earlier can dramatically improve confidence, wellbeing and financial stability.
Stigma over Problem Debt is delaying action
Nearly half of the respondents told us they waited a year or more before asking for help. The biggest barriers were stigma and self-blame.
- 61% said they felt ashamed or embarrassed
- 45% believed they should be able to deal with the problem alone
- 97% now say they wish they had sought debt advice sooner
Too many people suffer in silence, believing that struggling with debt is a personal failure. Our findings show the opposite: debt problems are common, often driven by circumstances beyond someone’s control, and solvable with the right support.
The hidden toll of debt in Scotland
Debt affects far more than finances. It impacts sleep, relationships, confidence and mental health.
- 91% lost sleep worrying about their debt
- 90% said it negatively affected their mental health
- 88% hid their debt from family or friends
- 82% worried about providing for their dependents
The cost-of-living crisis remains a significant driver. Many people told us they had cut back on essentials in an effort to cope:
- 66% reduced spending on socialising and hobbies
- One third cut back on food
- 55% worked longer hours or took on multiple jobs to try to stay afloat
Behind every percentage is a person carrying an enormous emotional burden.
Seeking help can change everything
Crucially, our research also shows just how transformative the right debt solution can be.
After entering a statutory debt solution such as a Protected Trust Deed, or the Debt Arrangement Scheme (DAS):
- 90% say their mental health improved
- 81% now feel comfortable talking about money
- 94% feel more confident managing their household budget
- Overall satisfaction with our services stands at 98%
These findings reinforce what we see every day: when people take that first step and ask for help, the weight lifts. The sleepless nights ease. Conversations become easier. Confidence returns.
Our message to people struggling with debt in Scotland
Through this campaign, we want to challenge the stigma that still surrounds debt and send a clear, simple message:
You are not alone. And asking for help sooner can change everything.
If you’re struggling with problem debt, support is available. Trust Deed Scotland can help you find out more about your options and take the first step toward a more affordable financial future.