I am in financial hardship after a scam and my mental health is suffering — what help is available?
If a scam has caused both financial hardship and mental health difficulties, you can access practical financial help through debt charities and bank hardship programmes, and mental health support through your GP, NHS services, and specialist fraud victim support organisations.
Last reviewed: 10 June 2026
Explanation
The combination of financial hardship and mental health distress following a scam is a recognised crisis requiring support on both fronts simultaneously. Trying to manage mental health in the context of acute financial pressure, or financial recovery while in significant psychological distress, is extremely difficult without appropriate support.
For financial hardship, contact your bank's hardship or vulnerability team — banks have obligations to treat customers in financial difficulty with forbearance. Debt advice charities including StepChange, Citizens Advice, and National Debtline provide free, non-judgemental advice on managing debt, prioritising essential bills, and accessing benefits. If the hardship resulted from fraud, this context is relevant to any debt management discussions.
For mental health, your GP is the first point of contact. NHS Talking Therapies (England) and equivalent services provide evidence-based psychological therapy, and many areas have specific bereavement and trauma services. Mind, Samaritans, and other charities provide immediate support. If you are in crisis, the Samaritans are available 24/7.
You do not have to choose between financial and mental health support — both should be addressed at the same time. Many advice organisations are experienced in helping people facing both challenges simultaneously.
Common red flags
- You are unable to cover essential bills including food, rent, or utilities following the scam
- You are in contact with debt collectors about debts you cannot pay
- You are having thoughts of harming yourself — seek immediate help
- Distress is affecting your ability to work or care for yourself or dependants
What to do now
- Call your bank's hardship team and explain your situation
- Contact StepChange (UK) or equivalent free debt charity for financial guidance
- Book an appointment with your GP to discuss the mental health impact
- Contact the Samaritans (116 123, UK) or equivalent crisis line if in immediate distress
- Self-refer to NHS Talking Therapies or apply for a GP referral
- Contact Citizens Advice for help understanding benefits and financial entitlements
Frequently asked questions
Can my bank freeze interest or charges while I am in financial hardship?
Yes — banks have obligations under FCA guidance to treat customers in financial difficulty fairly, which includes forbearance measures such as reduced minimum payments, interest freezes, and deferred repayment. Ask your bank's hardship or vulnerability team explicitly. Charities like StepChange can also negotiate on your behalf.
Is there emergency financial help for scam victims in the UK?
There is no single dedicated emergency fund for scam victims, but local authorities may provide crisis support through Local Welfare Assistance schemes, food banks and charities can assist with immediate needs, and your bank's hardship team may have discretionary funds. Citizens Advice can identify what you are entitled to in your area.