Hi again Mercy2604.

I'm unconvinced that using a credit card prior to your discharge would be of any benefit at all.

Once discharged, I'd suggest setting up a direct debit to pay off the credit card in full each month. That way there's little risk of an accidental missed payment making things worse rather than better.

You could perhaps pay for a modest supermarket shop or a petrol purchase for this purpose?

It's all about demonstrating a positive use of credit again.

as tda says credit card is not the best way to improve your credit score the temptation to use it to the limit again is not a good idea aqua and vanquais charge a phenomenal[8D] amount of interest 40% I believe try your bank if an if you really need a card patience is the key credit score in my opinion means little to me paying bills on time etc is the way to get credit for a second hand car etc that worked for me I was upfront with dealer how could I afford trade in was accepted and credit was accepted within 4 days

Hi Mercy

I took out an Aqua card around 8 months before the Trust Deed and defaults disappeared from my credit record.

I used it for small purchases each month and paid it in full as soon as I received the statement. I then used it for a very large purchase (for insurance through CC purchase cover) and cleared it. The credit limit was increased quite quickly, however, I contacted them and had it reduced.

Interest is horrendous but you don't pay interest if you pay it off.
When my credit reference file was clear of defaults it showed many months of operating a credit card with no issues which I was pleased to see after the reds and defaults.

I believe it all depends on the way you handle credit. If you are easily persuaded (in your mind) you can spend it and will pay it off and then don't, I personally would not get it at all. It is easy to overspend and only pay off some and before you know it the balance rises and you are paying huge interest. The first time I did not pay off in full would be a red alert for me and I would not use it again until paid off.

On the other hand, if you commit to paying it off completely - as TDA suggested by direct debit every month, and keep the limit very low, it can be a learning lesson in managing a credit card wisely.

Personally, I would be very cautious and would be having an honest dialogue with myself about how I am likely to use the credit card.
If in doubt stay away.

Thank you for your replies folks, much appreciated. You've all given me something to think about. I would only use the card for petrol/food shop which I would budget for anyway, definitely look looking to use it for other 'shopping' which got me in to this mess in the first place. My husband will keep my card to stop the temptation. Hopefully I've learned by my mistakes. Want to start showing I can be responsible with credit as when the td is off my file, we would like to try for a mortgage....fingers crossed.