Yorkshire mum cleared £12,000 debt in 12 months and says anyone can do it

Charlene Woracker, a 35-year-old mother of four from Sheffield, says she cleared £12,000 of debt in 12 months after separating from her children’s father left her relying on credit for essentials. High interest and minimum repayments made the debt feel impossible to tackle, and the strain affected her sleep and mental health. She decided to act to improve life for her children and give them a more secure financial future.

Woracker cut spending by cancelling subscriptions, planning meals and giving up social outings, takeaways and non-essential shopping. She also contacted creditors to negotiate settlements and learned to make beauty products and do her own hair, which she says saved about £150 a month. She had initially expected to take three years to repay the debt; the article describes her personal experience rather than a plan that will work for everyone.