Welcome to Debt Matters, the podcast where we break down the latest UK news shaping debt collection, credit control, arrears, recoveries, and the wider payments landscape.

Today’s story is a big one. StepChange is warning that arrears on essential bills are no longer a short-term pressure point. They are becoming a long-term feature of household finances across the UK. That matters not just for consumers, but also for creditors, utilities, housing providers, local authorities, lenders, and anyone involved in collections and recoveries.

Where is the pressure showing up most?

Energy arrears rose by 9% in 2025, moving from £2,340 to £2,560. Rent arrears were up 15% to £2,372. Mortgage arrears surged by 22%, rising from £10,239 in 2024 to £12,534 in 2025.

That is a striking mix because these are not small discret ...