About Us
Debt Talk CIC was founded in response to the disproportionate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Bangladeshi communities in London. The pandemic exposed deep-rooted inequalities and the trauma caused by poverty. In response, Debt Talk's founder highlighted the community’s resilience through collaboration, storytelling, and grassroots support. These experiences were documented in the publication “Covid Crisis: the Brit-Bangla Response.”
Debt Talk CIC aims to amplify the voices of Bangladeshi communities both locally and nationally by:
- Creating anti-poverty forums to explore the root causes and impacts of poverty-related trauma.
- Developing and delivering community-led campaigns and innovative support initiatives.
- Providing accessible financial education and budgeting skills to build long-term resilience.
- Offering culturally competent debt advice to help individuals navigate financial crises with hope and dignity.
Podcast
Debt’s a tough subject — but it’s time we talked. With the cost of living crisis biting and big changes shaking up the debt world, Debt Talk dives into the heart of it all. From collectors and enforcers to lenders and advice charities, we’re bringing real voices and raw stories to the mic. Let’s break the silence, challenge the system, and find out what support really looks like when debt hits home.
Education
Drowning in debt? Take a breath — you’ve got options, and the first step starts with you.
Get clear on where you stand: write down everything you owe, and split your debts into priority (like rent, council tax, and energy bills) and non-priority (credit cards, loans, etc.). Then, map out a monthly budget that actually works for your life — not just the numbers.
Check if you're missing out on benefits or support. It’s money with your name on it — claim it.
Now, don’t wait. Reach out to your creditors early — many will pause interest, freeze charges, or help you set up a payment plan. If you need breathing room, the Breathing Space scheme gives you 60 days of legal protection to get advice and make a plan.
From Debt Management Plans to Debt Relief Orders, IVAs, or even bankruptcy — there are solutions, and the right one depends on you. The key? Get advice that’s free, impartial, and focused on your future. You don’t have to do this alone — and you’re more powerful than your debt.
You’re not stuck — you’re just getting started.
Campaigns
Covid Crisis: The Brit-Bangla Response
"Ripon Ray’s exciting new book -‘Covid Crisis: The Brit Bangla Response’ - is a major achievement as there are very few studies of the pandemic that focus in such depth on particular minority communities in the UK”, Alastair Owens, Professor of Historical Geography, Queen Mary University of London. "Highlighting the dynamic response of the British Bangladeshi community during the devastating Covid crisis, the book reveals a unique insight into a marginalised community during a crisis—testimonies of the local community and beyond, collection of lived experiences during an unprecedented global pandemic. A space where marginalised and often vulnerable people's voices are given a platform. The Brit Bangla COVID Platform is an excellent and fascinating example of community-wide mediation." King’s College London, Dr Chris Tang
All proceeds made from the book will be reinvested into community projects and activities.
Get Involved
There's much to see here. So, take your time, look around, and learn all there is to know about us. We hope you enjoy our site and take a moment to drop us a line.
Donate
Become a part of our mission and consider donating to our cause!
All proceeds will be invested into community projects and activities.
