Debt is one of the most common financial challenges faced by individuals across the UK. Whether its credit card debt, personal loans, or mounting utility arrears, the pressure can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, Step Away Debt is here to help you regain control with proven debt solutions that actually work, tailored to your unique circumstances.
In 2025, with the cost of living still affecting households nationwide, it’s more important than ever to explore legitimate, regulated, and effective ways to reduce or clear your debt. In this post, we’ll break down the Top 5 Debt Solutions that have helped thousands of UK residents move toward financial freedom.
1. Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA)
An IVA is a legally binding agreement between you and your creditors, managed by an insolvency practitioner. You agree to pay back a portion of your debt through monthly payments over 5 or 6 years, and the rest is legally written off at the end of the term.
Why It Works:
- Up to 85% of unsecured debt can be written off
- Interest and charges are frozen
- Legal protection from creditors
- One affordable monthly payment
Ideal For:
People with over £6,000 in unsecured debt and a regular income.
At Step Away Debt, we help assess if an IVA is right for your situation and manage the setup from start to finish.
2. Debt Management Plan (DMP)
A debt management plan is an informal agreement with your creditors to pay back debts at a reduced rate. Payments are based on what you can realistically afford, and creditors often freeze interest if the plan is well managed.
Why It Works:
- Flexible and informal
- Reduced monthly payments
- No upfront fees when managed through FCA-authorised firms
Ideal For:
People with lower levels of debt who can’t afford current payments but want to avoid formal insolvency solutions.
Step Away Debt works with reputable DMP providers to negotiate better terms and make the process stress-free.
3. Debt Relief Order (DRO)
A DRO is designed for individuals with low income, little to no assets, and under £30,000 in unsecured debt. It freezes your debts for 12 months, after which they are written off if your situation hasn’t improved.
Why It Works:
- A clean slate after 12 months
- Affordable (£90 fee)
- Stops creditor contact and legal action
Ideal For:
People who are on benefits or have no disposable income and minimal assets.
Step Away Debt guides you to check if you qualify and assists with the application process.
4.Debt Consolidation Loan
Debt consolidation involves taking out a new loan to pay off existing debts. This can simplify your finances and potentially lower your overall interest rate, especially if you have a decent credit score.
Why It Works:
- Combines multiple debts into one monthly payment
- May reduce interest costs
- Simplifies budgeting
Ideal For:
Those with stable income and manageable debt levels who are seeking to reduce repayment stress.
While consolidation isn’t the best fit for everyone, Step Away Debt helps you compare options and avoid predatory lenders.
5. Bankruptcy
While often seen as a last resort, bankruptcy can provide a fresh start when other solutions aren’t viable. It’s a formal insolvency process that writes off most unsecured debts, but it does come with serious long-term consequences.
Why It Works:
- Writes off most debts quickly
- Stops legal action and creditor harassment
- Clears you of an overwhelming financial burden
Ideal For:
Individuals with no realistic way to repay debts and limited assets.
Step Away Debt helps explain the pros and cons and ensures you understand all options before pursuing bankruptcy.
How to Choose the Right Solution
Choosing the right solution depends on:
- Total amount of debt
- Type of debt (secured vs. unsecured)
- Income and employment status
- Assets and property ownership
- Long-term financial goals
That’s why at Step Away Debt, we offer free, confidential advice and match you with the best possible route to becoming debt-free.
Conclusion
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to dealing with debt. But in 2025, these 5 proven solutions have helped thousands of UK residents regain control of their finances, reduce stress, and step away from debt for good.
At Step Away Debt, our mission is simple: to guide you with integrity, transparency, and care. We’ll help you choose the best path forward — whether it’s an IVA, DMP, DRO, or another option entirely.