Hats off to anyone in an IVA

[drowning-mummy]

I really mean that.

DFD and other compnanies keep advertising their services on Nick Jnr (toddlers TV Channel).They make it sound so easy, that you just call and 'hey presto!' "a little known bit of Government Legislation" will wipe most of your debt away and then you can be debt free in 5 years....just like that!

I now know that this is not the case. IVAs are not easy. And anyone who manages one has my utmost respect. I guess the reason for this post is that I overheard a conversation at a BBQ about IVAs and BR. I wont bore you with the details, but put it this way, we were all classed as "having it easy". I followed advice and kept quiet!
If only people knew the truth. The budgets, the 4th year equity clause, the overtime, windfalls etc. Then they would realise that you are not 'getting it easy by dodging debts' but actually doing everything in your power to put things right and pay back what you can 'just' afford.

I can I just say that I think it is terrible to be on a public register if you are in an IVA. That needs to be changed.

Anyway, sorry I dont get to post on here that uch these days, too busy over on the BR board, but I do think of you all and your lovely community.

Take care
Love Karen x

[moretolife]

hi DM....you are so right ...societies perception of those in serious debt and those who either go br or iva are just "spongers" and "its their own fault" etc.....drastically needs to change...
wonder how we can do this....??i know that i wouldnt have the courage to stand up when folk are saying stuff and say.."hang on a minute...let me tell you what it is really like"

i sometimes nip over to the br site just to catch up with what folk are saying so read your posts sometimes too..

and have also read your blog....fabby

keep pressing on.....

[Lisa2009]

I agree, it is made to sound easy.
If not very careful, the stress can tear families apart.
I wonder if, put in the same position, these people then would think its the easy way out???

[drowning-mummy]

Hiya,

I do actually plan to stand up and tell all..........but not yet!
I want to be discharged a fair while yet, so we are looking at a couple of years. Paul Johns says "Knowledge is Power" so when I am in a position to speak, believe me I shall. And I shant hold back. Just need some more experience. And all this from the girl whose first ever post was entitled "So ashamed"

[Lisa2009]

You have come a long way DM as have most of us and lots more to come xxxx

[Viki.W]

Wow DM, good for you, I'm intrigued. I hope your BR goes smoothly, you really deserve this to be over. X

[drowning-mummy]

I cant wait Viki, end of an era (as you well know this week for you).
I really just want to educate people and defend those tackling their debts and help those who have not yet faced up to them.

When I get a bee in my bonnet and something affects my life so dramatically, then it is for a reason and I need to act on it. I was like that when our son died. Within 1 year I was giving talks to some of the top doctors and midwives in the industry!!!

We should always use the good that comes from the bad.

[Viki.W]

That's amazing DM, I wish you lots of luck and I know you'll follow this through. You sound like such a strong person, there is no way I could ever get up and speak infront of people like that. I admire you. You give so much support here and on the BR site too. Infact, the BR site has become much more friendly since you started posting. Keep up the good work! X

[MelanieGiles]

You two ought to set up your own debt advisory service! I would support you both.

[Viki.W]

Ooh fabulous idea.[:)]

[drowning-mummy]

Thank you Viki,
These forums are invaluable to anyone facing debt problems. They have opened my eyes to so much.
If only more people knew about IVAs and if only certain people wouldnt look down their noses at people in IVAs!!!!!!!!!!!
Thats why I started this thread. Not to knock IVAs but to show some respect to the people that are in them! You should all get a pat on the back I think.

[drowning-mummy]

Looks like we posted at the same time girls!

There is no better place to be advised than here!

[Viki.W]

Actually, that would be my dream job. Posting on here and advising people in person. I wonder where I would start.....

[pixie]

The pair of you would make a formidable team!
I don't think anyone can fully understand unless you've been there. Those that knock it today will be the ones joining our club tomorrow.

[Viki.W]

Yes Pixie, I think this club will be getting much bigger. X