People will be protected from the 'devastating impact' of problem debt in a new scheme announced by the Government.
The Breathing Space scheme due to start in two years will give extra support to people with mental health issues while they receive treatment.
It also means individuals and families struggling with problem debt will be given extra help and time to get their finances under control, city minister John Glen said.
But they will have to engage with professional advisers to find a long-term solution to their debts and get back on track with payments.
It will include local authority debts as well as those with central government and the commercial sector.
Mr Glen said: 'Problem debt can have a devastating impact of people’s lives, putting a huge burden on individuals which can lead to family breakdown, stress and mental health issues.
'No one should be stuck in an endless cycle of debt and facing the ever-looming threat of invasive debt collectors.
'That’s why I’m introducing this new scheme, giving everyone access to the advice, time and support they need to both get their finances under control and get away from the perpetual stress and worry debt can cause.'
