Things to consider before paying off a debt

As parents you may feel paying off the debt is the safest thing to do to protect your child and we recognise your fear that refusal may increase risk. However, it’s important to highlight paying off debts to exploiters isn’t straightforward and can be a very complex issue.

Below are some points to consider before paying off a debt:

• Criminal groups may not write off a debt even if it is paid, as it is not in their interests to do so, often risk can increase as the group have seen you are willing to pay.
• Consider the other forms of exploitation that your child is being subjected to. Does paying off the debt realistically stop the exploitation, control and manipulation that your child and family are experiencing?
• Debts can run exceptionally high; how will you manage the impact and financial hardship this can create?
• If a decision is made to pay off the debt, explore how professionals can continue to support you and your family. Consider how professionals can disrupt the exploiters and prevent re-victimisation.
• Whilst loan sharks can offer the opportunity to ease immediate pressure, the additional, long-term financial burden can be debilitating for families.
• Connect with independent charities who can support your safety planning such as Ivison Trust.