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Members of the UK’s armed forces do enter trust deeds. If you live in Scotland, this is an option to tackle a debt problem.
They’re not suitable for everyone. Some job roles could get affected.
This page applies to members of the:
• British Army
• Royal Navy
• Royal Air Force
Before going ahead, you must disclose your intentions internally.
A trust deed is a form of personal insolvency. Your employer requires you to make them aware of your plan. You can check whether your plan will cause employment issues.
The British Army comments about debt in A Soldier’s Values And Standards. It states,
“Look after your money carefully, avoid uncontrolled debts and heavy gambling as this shows a lack of self-discipline and others may lose their trust in you”.
Uncontrolled debt can leave people vulnerable. It can affect performance at work. Trust can break down in this situation. Your employer has to control these risks. Disclosure is the first stage of risk control.
Other employers (like the police and prison services) use similar risk control processes.
In most instances, debt does not lead to dismissal. MoneyForce advises,
“Formal Service action will only be taken in cases of persistent and irresponsible indebtedness. So it’s better to seek help as soon as possible. Don’t be embarrassed or ashamed to talk to your Chain of Command in the first instance. They will put you in contact with the relevant organisations that can help you”.
Employers understand debt issues are widespread. They understand debt can arise from bad luck or honest mistakes. They do not want to lose experienced men and women.
Bankruptcy may get treated more seriously. MoneyForce states,
“Bankruptcy should be notified to your chain of command. Depending on the precise circumstances, this may have a severe effect on your career”.
Trust deeds and bankruptcy are types of personal insolvency. They’re a last resort.
Other options give you more time to repay your debt. These options aren’t insolvency. They could help you to better manage your debt.
A formal option is the Debt Arrangement Scheme (DAS). An informal option is a Debt Management Plan. Each has pros and cons. DAS provides more protection and certainty.
These solutions should get disclosed to your employer.
Vetting levels vary according to the work you do.
Higher standards apply if your work is sensitive. Your security clearance may rely on good financial management.
Your credit report may get checked. It contains details of your debts. It shows any payment arrears or defaults. Any credit file entry remains there for six years. A trust deed gets recorded on your credit report. That record remains there for six years.
Your finances get checked if you apply to join the armed forces. They check you can afford your debts on a recruit’s salary.
Your application may get rejected if you cannot afford them.
There are many specialist sources of support. They include:
• Armed Services Advice Project
For expert debt advice, contact us.
We’ll identify options to deal with your debts. All advice is confidential.