Hi All. I am just sitting here pondering about my IVA and have read some posts this evening about new people going into their IVA's, who understandably are petrified.
For those of you who remember me back three years ago, pre IVA, I was a total wreck, and felt that the shame of an IVA was almost too much to bare but I had no choice, we were in a complete mess and we honestly felt that we were going to sink to oblivion if we didn't get some help.
I wanted to write this post to reassure all newbies just starting out on their IVA journeys, that it really isn't that bad. No-one is saying the next five years will be easy, but you learn very quickly about how to budget with the money you have, and you soon gain a real sense of pride when you get through a month with items bought by your very own cash.
I have just submitted my paperwork for my third review, and I never dread what will come back. I just take it on the chin and work the next year to my revised budgets and get through the best way I can.
The last three years have bought their issues along the way; a broken washing machine, a car accident, a car breakdown to name but a few, but we have tackled the hiccups and Melanie Giles and her team have been our saving grace.
Due to the level of our debts, our IVA is a 6 year one, not a 5, but we are plodding on and the years roll by without really noticing it and I can't believe we are half way through already.
Sorry for the long post, but I just want to wish all the newbies the best of luck on their journey. Keep posting for invaluable advice on the forum and before you know it, you will be receiving your completion certificate as I will be in three years time. I know first hand that feeling of absolute dispair, but there is hope, and certainly with every month that you pay your IVA, that glimmer of light at the end of that dark tunnel becomes brighter and brighter.
Best of luck to all you newbies and to everyone on their successful journeys to a better future.
Kazzy [:D] xx
