England and Wales
Breathing Space debt respite scheme
How the Breathing Space debt respite scheme works in England and Wales, who can start it and what creditor protections apply.
Who can start a standard Breathing Space
Government guidance says it must be started by an FCA-authorised debt advice provider or a local authority where it provides debt advice. The adviser checks eligibility and whether the moratorium is appropriate.
What creditors must generally stop
Once notified that a qualifying debt is in Breathing Space, creditors must apply the statutory protections. These generally include stopping specified enforcement or recovery action and not requiring payment of qualifying interest, fees, penalties or charges that accrue during the moratorium.
It is not a payment holiday or debt write-off
The underlying debt remains. Government guidance says debtors should continue paying debts and ongoing liabilities where they can, and some ongoing household liabilities need to continue during a standard Breathing Space.
Mental health crisis Breathing Space
A separate route exists for people receiving qualifying mental health crisis treatment. Its duration and access route differ from a standard Breathing Space.
Related guidance
Important: This page provides general information, not regulated financial or legal advice. Rules and enforcement processes can depend on the debt, court, creditor and jurisdiction.