Brits avoid seeking financial help because of ongoing stigma (Image: SWNS)
More than one in three adults have avoided asking for financial help due to fear of being judged – with many choosing to struggle in silence. A poll of 2,000 Brits found 70% felt a stigma around needing additional money to get by, believing difficulty is still seen as something to hide rather than talk about (66%).
But the impact goes far beyond finances taking a toll on mental wellbeing, as respondents reported feelings of stress (49%), anxiety (47%) and overwhelm (35%) when faced with money worries.
The research, commissioned by GroceryAid for Mental Health Awareness Week, also found the pressure has at times even impacted relationships with friends and family (29%). While one in 10 were unable to enjoy leisure time or activities due to daily money stress.
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Kieran Hemsworth, CEO of the charity which provides relief in tough times for grocery workers and their families by offering free and confidential financial, emotional and practical support, said: “Sometimes the biggest step is reaching out for help, but ‘finance-xiety’ shouldn’t be a taboo.
“Financial worries don’t just affect your bank balance – they can have a real impact on your mental health too. No one should feel they have to struggle alone. There is support available, and speaking up sooner can make a huge difference, both financially and emotionally.
“Last year we provided £4.6 million in financial grants to help everyone from supermarket workers to delivery drivers and warehouse operators make ends meet. If you work in the grocery industry or have done in the past you could be eligible.
“It’s not a handout, it’s the help you have earned.”
The research also found 29% have been in a position where they have asked friends or family for financial assistance purely to afford essentials.
Of these, 57% had needed to ask for help with bills, the food shop (46%), for rent or the mortgage (37%) and insurance (21%). A further 16% have applied for financial support like a grant to help them get by, and 18% have considered it.
However, 22% said they had not applied for one and ‘would never do this’ showing the stigma runs deeps. Those who had received financial support admitted they waited an average of nearly three months before accessing it.
And 9% had even put it off for more than a year – prolonging financial strain and the associated emotional impact.
Reasons for the delay included feeling too embarrassed (45%), not knowing where to turn (37%), and being too worried about what others would think (36%). And many simply didn’t know support was available to them (47%), according to OnePoll findings.
Once they had received support, 41% said it made them feel more in control of their situation, it improved their mental wellbeing (38%), and reduced issues at home (32%).
Others shared it increased their sense of stability and security (32%), gave them greater confidence in day-to-day life (30%) and improved their relationships (26%).
And 87% agreed receiving financial support can be a lifeline for people.
Megan Archer-Fox, the ‘fin-influencer’ known as That Girl in Debt, cleared £40,000 of credit card debt and has partnered with GroceryAid to urge others to drop the shame and secrecy to help their wellbeing, said: “Debt used to be the first thing I thought about when I opened my eyes in the morning.
“To everyone else, I appeared happy and successful but in reality, I was desperately struggling to keep my head above water. It got to the point where debt was on my mind every day, and affecting every part of my life.
Megan ‘struggled’ to keep her head above water when faced with debt (Image: SWNS)
“But I was too upset and ashamed to speak about it to anyone. When I eventually started opening up – to my parents, my friends and to others online also struggling with debt – it felt like a weight had been lifted.
“Talking actually helped get rid of that feeling of shame. My debt had me in a chokehold for years but when I finally started being honest and speaking out, it lost the power it had over me.
“I realised for the first time that I wasn’t alone – and that I shouldn’t be embarrassed.
“I’d encourage anyone facing financial difficulties to reach out for support early – talk to friends, family or charities like GroceryAid.
“You should never feel ashamed for asking for help.”
THAT GIRL IN DEBT’S SIX WAYS TO TAKE BACK CONTROL OF MONEY STRESS:
Face up to it
I had my head in the sand for years when it came to my own money issues. Being brave and facing up to my debt was the first thing I did – and it helped massively.
Talk to someone
I started sharing my debt online, and met thousands of other people who were also struggling with money. For the first time in more than a decade I didn’t feel quite so alone. But even just confiding in a trusted friend or family member can make a huge difference to your mental health while you’re adjusting your relationship with money.
Check what support you’re entitled to
Grants don’t need to be paid back – and if you’re struggling to make ends meet, they can give you breathing space. But it’s something many people overlook. When I was tackling my own debt, I didn’t even consider applying – and missed out as a result.
Allow yourself setbacks
During the time I was paying off debt, I went £500 over my monthly budget one January. But it was a lesson learned – and I just had to carry on.
Be realistic
Some people are naturally frugal, but I’m not one of them. I knew if I cut out my favourite treats until the debt was gone, then I’d probably lose motivation fast.
No more shame
Debt is a normal part of life and it can happen to anyone; it’s just we don’t talk about it enough. Please don’t let shame, or fear of being judged, stop you from getting the help and support you need.