People in problem debt get 60-day break scheme
By Kevin Peachey
Published
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A new "breathing space" scheme has begun in England and Wales to shield people in problem debt from further interest and charges.
People receiving debt advice can apply for the break, which lasts for up to 60 days, to prevent them falling into a spiral of debt.
The Treasury has estimated that up to 700,000 people could be helped by the scheme in its first year.
People receiving treatment for mental health issues can get more help.
The separate system for those receiving mental health crisis treatment lasts for the length of that treatment, plus another 30 days.