REDDITCH MP Chris Bloore sponsored a parliamentary drop-in event with StepChange Debt Charity during Debt Awareness Week.
The Westminster event brought together MPs, parliamentary staff and debt advice experts to highlight the scale of financial hardship across the UK and the importance of accessible, stigma-free support.
The session featured frontline insight from a StepChange debt adviser alongside policy experts working to improve protections for those facing financial difficulty.
Mr Bloore said: “Debt is far more common than people think – around one in two of us will face a debt-related challenge at some point in our lives but too many people feel ashamed to talk about it or ask for help.
“Debt Awareness Week is about sending a clear message: you are not alone and free, impartial support is available. I’m proud to have sponsored StepChange’s event in Parliament and to support their work helping people get back on track.”
The event also gave MPs the opportunity to hear directly from debt advisers working on the frontline about the challenges people face navigating debt, accessing support and dealing with enforcement action. Issues such as bailiff regulation were also highlighted in Parliament during the week.
He added: “Hearing directly from those working with people in debt every day really brings home the scale of the challenge and the stress it places on families.
“Whether it’s rising costs, unexpected life events or long-term financial pressures, anyone can be affected. What matters is that people know support is there – free, confidential and impartial. With the right advice, people can find a way forward.”
Following the event, StepChange confirmed strong engagement from parliamentarians, with new working relationships established and further discussions planned with ministers on improving support for people in problem debt.
