Hi Shell, if you have all the information you need, balances etc, a good IVA will get your proposal innfront of your creditors between 1&3 months from first contact (experts may correct me, especially as this is a very busy time of the year). That's the most stressful time, particularly as you will be advised to stop paying creditors and may start to receive direct contact from them. If you choose a good IP (many people here would recommend Melanie and her team) they will give you the best advice on how to deal with those contact and indeed, where possible, absorb some of that heat for you. Support, wherever you can get it will be invaluable. Those you're closest to will probably suprise you with their understanding and support and you'll find everyone on here providing support and encouragement every step of the way.
Andrew's analogy of the train is spot on, we've all been on it and it's so fantastic to get off and manager the journey back to somewhere that feels safer and under our control. The saddest thing is that there's plenty of people out there on that train right now, may not even be aware of where they're headed, or may have seen the buffers but not know what to do. You've seen the buffers and made the right decision, and I jujst want to wish you all the luck in the world in getting it all sorted out.
Have a great Christmas,
Martin
