Breathing Space: how the debt respite scheme works in England and Wales
Published · 3 min read · Figures checked . UK rules and rates change, so check the official sources below before you act.
Breathing Space is a government scheme that gives temporary protection from creditors while someone gets debt advice and makes a plan. This guide explains the two types, what stops, who can use it and how people apply.
Who this guide is for
This guide is general information for people in England or Wales who are struggling with debt. GOV.UK describes the scheme for people who live in England or Wales, so this guide does not cover Scotland or Northern Ireland, which have their own debt options. It is not advice for your own situation.
The details below were checked on GOV.UK on 7 October 2026.
What Breathing Space is
GOV.UK says that if you live in England or Wales, you can get temporary protection from your creditors while you get debt advice and make a plan. It is also called the Debt Respite Scheme.
The two types
- Standard Breathing Space gives protection for up to 60 days.
- Mental health crisis Breathing Space applies to people receiving mental health crisis treatment. GOV.UK says the protection lasts for the length of the treatment plus another 30 days.
What stops during Breathing Space
GOV.UK says that while the protection is in place, creditors cannot take enforcement action, cannot contact you about the debts included, and cannot add interest and charges to those debts. The aim is to give a person time to talk to an adviser without pressure.
What does not stop
It is not a payment holiday. GOV.UK says you will still need to make your debt repayments and keep paying regular bills. Ongoing costs such as rent, a mortgage, utility bills and council tax still need to be paid.
Who can use it
GOV.UK says you cannot use it if you have a debt relief order, an individual voluntary arrangement, an interim order or are bankrupt. You also cannot use it if you have used Breathing Space in the last 12 months, unless that was for a mental health crisis.
How people apply
You cannot apply on your own. GOV.UK says you speak to a debt adviser, who submits the application for you if it is the right option. MoneyHelper has a free locator service for finding a debt adviser.
Free help
Struggling with debt is common, and help is available. Free, impartial debt advice is offered by MoneyHelper, Citizens Advice and StepChange. Many people find that speaking to an adviser early gives them more choices. If a creditor has treated you unfairly, the Financial Ombudsman Service may be able to look at a complaint.
Check before you act
Rules and eligibility can change, and a debt adviser can explain how they apply to your situation. It is worth confirming the details on the official page linked below before relying on anything in this guide.
Sources
For information only. See our disclaimer and editorial standards. Spotted an error? Tell us.
