Debtfree DIGI – April – Editor’s Note

Editor’s Note

It seems that fictional character John Snow’s warning about “winter” has come to pass. Storms in the Cape wiped out around 150 houses this month and elsewhere the weather has turned. Winter has begun to settle in.  No relief yet for the drought stricken areas though, isn’t that typical.  A lot of consumers probably feel exactly the same way.  Things just never seem to go their way.  So many times it seems that things just stack against you no matter what you try.  Even when consumer enter debt review (expecting no more pressure or stress about their debts) they soon face challenges which can make them feel that they have not really improved their situation. Obviously this is more perception that reality, however it can move some to make poor choices right at the start of the process. In this issue we look at crucial steps consumers can take to make a success of their debt review. Though Debt Counsellors admittedly do the lion share of the heavy lifting in the process, it is still the consumer’s debt. If you recently began debt review, then be sure to read the article and follow the simple but important steps outlined.  We also look at a new project launched by the Debt Counselling Community Support Program (DCCS) which really highlights that debt review is not a short little sprint but rather a marathon in which consumers need to pace themselves.

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The NCR and many credit providers have been very busy. Some credit providers have been busy taking on the NCR.  Be sure to catch all the latest news in this issue. Those in the industry will no doubt find the (admittedly longer and more involved than normal) letter from one of our readers very interesting.  It discusses some technical issues surrounding the NCR guidelines and the process as it is currently conducted.  As time goes by, and new court cases are heard, the landscape needs to be reevaluated and this letter discusses some of those potential considerations. We also look at upcoming industry and association events.

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There is a story of two families sitting in two similar homes during mid-winter, both with leaking roofs. The first family is gloomy and distressed at the leaks while, strangely, the second family is singing songs and are all smiling, despite the leaks.  The difference between the two families? The second family will soon be moving to their newly constructed (leak free) home. The story is centered on the power of hope.  If you are struggling with your debt, don’t let it wear you down and wash you out with one problem after another. Rather embrace hope and enter debt review.  Manage the process well and you will soon find yourself heading for a bright, dry, warm future – living debt free.

This article from the April 2016 issue of Debtfree DIGI magazine.