Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what discussions she plans to have with the debt advice sector on the 5-year statutory review of the scheme.

The Debt Respite Scheme (‘the Breathing Space scheme’) was launched in May 2021 to give those in problem debt the space to engage with professional debt advice by providing a temporary relief from creditor enforcement action. Given the link between mental health and problem debt, the scheme also offers a separate entry route for eligible individuals receiving treatment for a mental health crisis.

As is standard for schemes of this nature, HM Treasury will carry out a five-year post implementation review of the scheme to consider its objectives and impact. As part of this, HM Treasury is engaging closely with a range of stakeholders, including debt advice providers.

The Government continues to monitor the Breathing Space scheme to ensure it remains an effective tool for individuals and has regular engagement with organisations closely involved in its operation.