Accommodation Concern launches new online debt referral tool

Accommodation Concern has today launched a new online debt onboarding tool, designed to help people access debt advice more quickly and easily through our website.

The tool allows clients to refer themselves directly for debt advice and securely provide initial information about their financial circumstances at a time that suits them. This includes details about income, household costs and debts, which helps our advisers understand the situation earlier and reduces delays before meaningful support can begin.

Based on the information entered, the tool also provides clear, high-level information about some of the debt solutions that may be available, such as repayment plans or formal debt options. These options are shown for information purposes only and are not a substitute for regulated debt advice. All clients who complete the tool are followed up by a qualified adviser, who will assess their circumstances in full and provide personalised, regulated advice.

The new system has been developed with support from the Money and Pensions Service through its Debt Advice Modernisation Fund. The fund supports advice organisations to modernise services, improve access to help, and reduce the time people spend waiting for support when they are under financial pressure.

By gathering key information upfront, the tool helps clients begin the advice journey sooner and allows advisers to spend more time providing tailored support, particularly for people with more complex situations. It also reduces the need for clients to repeat information across multiple appointments, which can be a barrier to engagement for some people.

As with all our services, debt advice provided by Accommodation Concern remains free, independent and regulated. The online tool is designed to complement, not replace, adviser-led support and face-to-face or telephone appointments remain available for clients who need them.

Alongside the new onboarding tool, Accommodation Concern has also implemented new technology from Wyser. Wyser supports our advisers by securely assisting with case notes and administrative tasks, helping to ensure records are accurate and up to date while freeing up adviser time for direct client work. This technology operates within our existing advice systems and does not replace professional judgement or decision-making.

The launch forms part of our wider commitment to improving access to advice, reducing waiting times, and making sure people get the right help at the right time, particularly during periods of financial stress.

The debt onboarding tool is available now via our website. Clients who prefer not to use online services can still contact us directly to access support.