6. The adviser’s role
Debt advisers are in an ideal position to identify economic abuse. Their involvement can be critical in spotting warning signals and supporting clients to regain control of their finances and rebuild their lives. For example, you can help the client write a note to add to their credit file, which could stop further applications for credit in their name by their abuser.
The Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act 2018 recognises that abuse can also occur after separating from an abusive partner. This is crucial in relation to economic abuse, as the abuse can start, continue or escalate after physically separating from an abusive partner and can, for example, include:
•deliberately and unreasonably delaying legal proceedings to increase legal fees;
•misusing and sabotaging joint financial products.
This behaviour can be used as evidence against the abuser. Clients should discuss this with their solicitor or support worker, or contact Scottish Women’s Aid for further support.
While advisers should not shy away from raising economic abuse as an issue, there may be instances where referral to other agencies is appropriate. It is important to know your limitations and when it is appropriate to refer onto another more qualified organisation.
Try to encourage meaningful partnership working through which information is shared, to avoid the client having to repeat their story.
Agencies that may be able to help
– Scottish Women’s Aid:
– Scotland’s Domestic Abuse and Forced Marriage Helpline:
– LGBT+ Helpline Scotland:
– Men’s Advice Line (for male victims of domestic abuse): 0800 801 0327 and
– AMIS (Abused Men in Scotland):
– Saheliya (for black, minority ethnic, asylum seeker, refugee and migrant women and girls aged 12+):
– Scottish Women’s Rights Centre:
– Women’s Support Project:
Other local resources may be available.
Supporting a client who is experiencing economic abuse can be challenging, as it may feel like the ways in which they can be helped are limited. However, by understanding the position that the client is in, discussing their options with them and advocating on their behalf, advisers are playing a crucial role in helping them move forward. An adviser’s support may also help the client gain the confidence to speak to another agency about the abuse.
Economic abuse and physical abuse often go hand in hand. The client’s safety is paramount: check that it is safe for your agency to contact them. Ensure you establish the client’s safe contact methods and if there are any immediate concerns, take advice from your local women’s aid or manager.
As a responsible adviser, you need to understand your agency’s safeguarding policies and be mindful of your own wellbeing while supporting your client.