1. Professional debt adviceDebt advice is a professional activityEnsuring good practiceFor organisationsCAB accreditationThe Tackling Problem Debt GroupSecond-tier support from MATRICS consultancyMATRICS learnThe Financial Conduct AuthorityThe client's best interestsA professional attitudeA commitment to social policyA sound knowledge of law and proceduresA commitment to developing the serviceA systematic approachAn ability to involve the client in informed choicesClients with mental health problemsDebt advice is a set of tools and strategies used to help clients deal with financial difficulties. Debt advice provides help to clients by:•explaining the implications of non-payment of each of their debts and, on this basis, deciding which are priorities;•establishing whether or not they are liable for their debts, and assisting them to challenge their creditors if appropriate;•enabling them to maximise their disposable income;•assisting them to plan their budgets;•providing impartial, independent and confidential advice to enable them to make an informed choice about the solutions available;•helping them choose a strategy that will minimise the effects of their debt on their financial, social or personal wellbeing;•preserving their home, essential goods and services, and liberty;•assisting by advice or representation with the implementation of whatever strategy is chosen.