pmsumner

So, I just called up my two biggest problem creditors (or is it debtors? I can never remember which way round it works) - the two companies who I have debts to, that will cause me the biggest problems should I default on the payments - Barclaycard (Visa) and Barclays Personal Credit (Who gave me my graduate loan, payments on which I thought wouldn't start until 2003).

(These two are my biggest problems because these are two that I can not cancel, and these are two that can affect my credit rating in what amounts to a rather huge way. I'd rather keep a decent (not tip-top, but decent) record thank you!)

Because I am unemployed, and currently very very poor indeed, I called them both up to explain my situation and ask what they could do. Barclaycard were VERY helpful, telling me all my options (Cancel my card, make reduced payments for 3 months, x, y or z) and trying their hardest to ensure that my credit rating wasn't affected. On the other hand, when I explained the situation to Barclays Personal Credit, the guy wasn't helpful at all, telling me all he could do was move the payment date.

All very well - but how on earth is that going to make any difference?

I just have to hope that I get some benefit money through pronto - I'm asking for 2 months worth of back-payments, which will work out to about £330 - assuming that they give it to me, which is one hell of an assumption.