Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask His Majesty's Government what plans they have (1) to set out a timeline for the review of the Breathing Space scheme required by May 2026, and (2) to consult with debt advice providers such as Citizens Advice as part of that review.

The Breathing Space scheme allows 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. More widely, the Government monitors the scheme’s operation to ensure it remains an effective tool for individuals and has regular engagement with debt advice providers as part of this.