Running a company does not insulate anyone from difficult personal circumstances. Serious illness, a bereavement, mental health pressures, caring responsibilities or a sudden life event can all affect the people behind a business. When that happens, we want to know so we can adjust how we work with you.
What counts as a vulnerable circumstance
There is no fixed list. It can be temporary or longer lasting, and it might affect the person who normally handles the company's finances. Examples include a health diagnosis, a recent bereavement, the breakdown of a relationship between directors, or a period where decision-making is genuinely harder than usual.
How our approach changes
- We can give you more time to respond and avoid pressuring you for quick decisions.
- We can communicate in the way that works best for you, and with an authorised colleague or representative if you prefer.
- We can pause or slow collections activity while things settle.
- We can point you towards independent support relevant to your situation.
Telling us is voluntary and there is no disadvantage in doing so. We record only what we need to give you the right support and treat it sensitively. While business lending sits outside the FCA consumer-credit regime, we still believe in handling these situations with care. Reach out through your account or your agreement contact details.
See also: Where can my company get free, independent business debt advice?, Looking after yourself while running a business in difficulty and Free business debt advice organisations in the UK.