Over one in three Brits keep away from searching for monetary assist resulting from stigma and disgrace

Financial stigma is still very much alive in the UK, with 70% of Brits feeling judged for money worries and choosing to suffer in silence rather than ask for support

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More than a third of adults have shied away from seeking financial help due to fear of judgement, with many opting to suffer in silence. A survey of 2,000 Brits revealed that 70% felt there was a stigma attached to needing extra money to make ends meet, with 66% believing financial hardship is still viewed as something to conceal rather than discuss.

However, the impact extends far beyond finances, taking a toll on mental wellbeing, with respondents reporting feelings of stress (49%), anxiety (47%) and overwhelm (35%) when faced with money worries.

The study, commissioned by GroceryAid for Mental Health Awareness Week, also discovered that the strain has occasionally even affected relationships with friends and family (29%). Meanwhile, one in 10 were unable to enjoy leisure time or activities due to daily financial stress.

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 the charity provided £4.6 million in financial grants to assist everyone from supermarket workers to delivery drivers. They are now urging others who work in the grocery sector to seek help they have earned, if they are eligible.

The research revealed 29% of respondents have found themselves in situations where they’ve turned to friends or family for financial help simply to cover basic necessities. Among these , 57% required help with bills, grocery shopping (46%), rent or mortgage payments (37%) and insurance costs (21%).

Additionally, 16% have submitted applications for financial support such as grants to help them manage, while 18% have contemplated doing so. Nevertheless, 22% stated they hadn’t applied for assistance and ‘would never do this’, highlighting how deeply ingrained the stigma remains.

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.

After receiving assistance, 41% reported feeling more in control of their circumstances, experiencing improved mental health (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%). Moreover, 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 teamed up with GroceryAid to encourage others to shed the stigma and secrecy surrounding debt for the sake of their mental health.

She 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. 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.