BASIC DEBT COUNSELLING
WITH STUDENTS

Who the course if for: This course compliments Debt Counselling I & II and is aimed at those whose work involves advising students in higher education. The course is suitable for student advisers from either Student Unions or Higher Education Institutions. No experience or knowledge of debt counselling is necessary.

Aims:

• To provide an introduction to money advice skills and an overview of the debt counselling process with particular reference to the problems of students in debt
• To develop participants' ability to assist students in debt in an effective, non-judgmental and sensitive way

Course Content:

• Consideration of the importance of income maximisation and the use of access funds with special emphasis on students benefit entitlement
• An introduction to liability for debt
• Budgeting and prioritising payments for students
• Budgeting and drafting of financial statements for students
• Negotiation with typical student creditors

Course Materials:

• Student Debt Advice Handbook and handouts

Tutor:

This course is tutored by Stefan Thomas, a student adviser with extensive experience of Benefits, money advice and training