About this resource
When there are several debts, it helps to know which matter most. This worksheet lists each debt with the amount, repayments and what could happen if it is not paid, then sorts debts into priority debts, such as rent, mortgage and essential utilities, and non-priority debts. It encourages free financial counselling.
Purpose
To help people see all their debts and focus on those with the most serious consequences first.
Who it is for
Primary profession: Community services and case workers. Also relevant for social workers.
Client or participant group: Adults with multiple debts, and the workers supporting them.
Practice setting: Emergency relief, financial support and community services.
Suggested uses
- Financial support appointments
- Preparing for financial counselling
- Case planning
- Reducing overwhelm
Instructions for practitioners
- Support the person to list every debt without judgement.
- Explain that priority depends on consequences, not who is chasing hardest.
- Refer to free financial counselling.
- Watch for signs of financial abuse.
Instructions for clients or participants
- List all your debts.
- Mark which are priority debts.
- Contact a free financial counsellor.
Accessibility considerations
Workers can scribe. Interpreters can support.
Scope and limitations
General information. It is not financial or legal advice. Free financial counselling is available through the National Debt Helpline.
Research basis
Debt and financial stress are strongly linked with poorer mental and physical health, so practical financial support is part of holistic care.
- Richardson, T., Elliott, P., & Roberts, R. (2013). The relationship between personal unsecured debt and mental and physical health: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clinical Psychology Review, 33(8), 1148–1162. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cpr.2013.08.009
What is included
A 2-page printable A4 PDF, including a practitioner notes page with the research basis (version 1.0).
Originality
Original Practitioner Plus content: wording, activity structure, layout and icons were created for this resource. No third-party worksheets, illustrations or text were reproduced.
