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Debt Talk: FCA, vulnerable consumer & duty
Debt Talk: Poverty & Black History in Britain
Welcome to the first of many Debt Talk podcasts presented to you by Ripon Ray, a debt expert for over 10 years. In times of the cost of living crisis, discussing debt has become more important than ever. At the same time, changes in regulations and government policy, increase the cost of fuel and goods which result in people getting into debt. In this episode Ripon Ray speaks to Helen Lord, CEO of Vulnerability Registration Service, on the following issues: The meaning of vulnerability from the perspective of the FCA Ways organisations to identify vulnerability Meaning of consumer duty and the FCA Tips available to organisations who are struggling with implementing Consumer Duty Guidance into practice If you want to get in touch with Ripon Ray to speak about debt-related subjects on Debt Talk, email: ripon.ray@yourdoctordebt.com. More on Ripon Ray: www.yourdoctordebt.com
As we leave the summer of 2025 behind and step into October, we enter a month that is unapologetic, bold, and powerful: Black History Month in Britain. This is a time to honour struggle and triumph, to celebrate the contributions of Black communities, and to confront the uncomfortable realities of poverty and inequality that still persist today. Welcome to the Debt Talk Podcast. I’m your host, Ripon Ray. This episode: “Poverty & Black History in Britain.” To guide us through this important conversation, I’m joined by two remarkable guests: Jerry During, founder of Money A&E, the UK’s first lived-experience-led debt and financial education service, was born in Newham. Jerry shared how his father’s experience of debt shaped his childhood, and how his own awareness of being Black sharpened as he pursued a legal career. In law firms, the only non-white faces he encountered were in low-income roles, such as those of cleaners and receptionists. That moment stayed with him. His fascination with the diversity of challenges faced by indebted communities, alongside policy failures, drove him to create a service rooted in lived experience. As a Black man from East London, he set out to change the narrative and build something that spoke directly to the needs of his community. Helen Barnard, Director of Policy and Research at the Trussell Trust, brought her powerful insights from the recent report “Hunger in the UK.” The research shows that Black and minority ethnic communities are twice as likely to experience food insecurity compared to white communities. She explained how insecure jobs, low pay, and a welfare system that fails to meet people’s needs fuel this crisis. Helen stressed the importance of centring lived experience in policy-making—not only because it gives voice to those most affected, but because it is essential for driving meaningful change. Together, our expert panel provided practical tips for individuals facing financial struggles, as well as clear calls to action for policymakers to build fairer and stronger communities. Their voices carry weight in this vital month of recognition and resistance. And stay tuned—our next episode tackles another urgent issue: “Insecure Homes.”
6% of UK children now rely on foodbanks. What does that say about the state’s responsibility toward children and other vulnerable members of society? Is the current welfare state fit for purpose? Or are we sleepwalking into the slow erosion of what remains of it? In this month’s Debt Talk podcast, hosted by Ripon Ray, three distinguished experts joined the conversation on “Foodbanks & the Welfare State.” Helen Barnard from the Trussell Trust spoke about how poverty in the UK runs far deeper than it appears. The prevalence of child poverty reflects the shameful state of public affairs in Britain, where turning to foodbanks has become the norm for many families. The lack of food at home doesn’t just affect individuals—it also places added pressure on public services, including health and social care. Dan White from Disability Rights UK highlighted how already marginalised communities, particularly disabled people, have been further targeted by current government policies. Discrimination against disabled individuals isn’t limited to the benefits system; it begins early in education and continues through to employment. Meanwhile, vital public services like Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) have suffered significant cuts. Glyn Robbins from London Metropolitan University explained how the privatisation of key pillars of the welfare state, such as housing, has worsened people’s wellbeing. He emphasised the need for collaborative work with local communities to resist further cuts. Reflecting on his experience in a housing association, he noted that housing conditions have deteriorated significantly over time. All three panellists also shared top tips with Debt Talk listeners on how to organise campaigns that strengthen their communities and reduce reliance on foodbanks. Next episode: Innovation in the Debt Sector