Fresh Start Debt Support
Dealing with several credit cards, loans, or overdrafts can feel overwhelming. If you bank with NatWest, you might be considering a consolidation loan with NatWest to tidy up your finances. But is it the right choice — and are there better alternatives?
At Fresh Start Debt Support, we help people understand their full range of options before they commit to another loan. We’ll explore how a consolidation loan works, when it might help, and when other solutions like an IVA or Debt Management Plan could offer more protection and relief.
Get Free Advice About Debt ConsolidationA NatWest consolidation loan is a type of personal loan used to pay off multiple existing debts. Instead of juggling several repayments and interest rates, you combine everything into one new loan with a single monthly payment to NatWest. This can feel like a “reset” — but it’s not always as simple or safe as it seems.
Here’s how it works:
This may reduce your monthly payments or interest, depending on your credit score and loan terms. However, if your finances are stretched or your credit rating is poor, a consolidation loan might be declined — or come with a high APR.
Before you apply, it’s essential to consider all the options. A consolidation loan is just one route. We’re here to explain what works best for your situation.
Check If a Consolidation Loan Is Right for YouLike all financial tools, a consolidation loan from NatWest has its benefits — and its drawbacks. We break them down clearly so you can make an informed decision.
Sometimes, what starts as a solution can lead to deeper debt if the loan is unaffordable or simply delays the problem. We’ve seen many clients who took out a NatWest loan hoping to consolidate, only to fall behind again.
That’s why we encourage people to explore other options — like Individual Voluntary Arrangements (IVAs) or Debt Management Plans (DMPs) — which may offer real protection, not just another loan.
See What Other Options You May Qualify ForBefore taking out a loan to consolidate your debts, it’s important to ask: “Is this the best solution for my situation?” For many people, a loan may only offer temporary relief — while other options could freeze interest, stop legal action, or even write off a portion of what you owe.
Here are three strong alternatives to a consolidation loan from NatWest:
An IVA is a formal debt solution that lets you combine your unsecured debts into one affordable monthly payment — usually lasting five years. After that, the rest is legally written off. IVAs are protected by law, which means:
A DMP is an informal agreement where we contact your creditors to reduce your monthly payments and possibly freeze interest. You pay what you can afford — no pressure. This option works well for those with a steady income who need breathing space without taking on more credit.
Explore DMPs and See If You QualifyIf your income is low and you have few assets, a DRO may be a powerful option. It freezes your debts for 12 months, and if your circumstances don’t improve, the debts are wiped clean. A DRO is often suitable for people with under £30,000 in debt and minimal disposable income.
See If You’re Eligible for a DROAll of these alternatives offer something a loan can’t: protection. They also don’t rely on you having a perfect credit score or adding more interest to your burden.
Talk to Us About Safer AlternativesA consolidation loan from NatWest may sound like a quick fix — but it’s not suitable for everyone. In fact, for some people, it can actually make things worse.
You should think carefully before applying if:
Applying for a loan when you’re already struggling can lead to:
If any of these points apply to you, it’s worth speaking to us before making a decision. We’ll give you free, honest advice and explain your full set of options.
Get Personalised Debt Advice TodayEvery week, we speak to people who took out consolidation loans thinking it would solve their financial worries. But for many, it only delayed the problem or made it worse. Here are a few real-life examples:
Sarah took out a NatWest consolidation loan of £10,000 to pay off credit cards. At first, things felt manageable. But then her rent increased, and she fell behind again. We helped her enter an IVA — her monthly payment dropped from £350 to £90, and the rest of her debt will be written off after five years.
James was rejected for a NatWest loan due to a recent default. He thought there were no other options until he found Fresh Start. He now has a Debt Management Plan and is working toward debt freedom — without more credit or pressure.
Claire didn’t want to borrow more. She qualified for a Debt Relief Order due to low income. After 12 months, her debts were legally written off — and she didn’t have to pay anything during that time.
Everyone’s situation is different. What matters is finding the right solution for you — not just the one the bank offers.
See What Solution Is Right for YouThere’s a lot of confusion around NatWest consolidation loans — and debt consolidation in general. Let’s clear up a few common myths so you can make the best choice for your future.
Truth: Not always. Many people end up paying more over time due to longer terms or higher interest rates, especially with poor credit.
Truth: Absolutely not. IVAs, DMPs, DROs and even bankruptcy may be better options depending on your circumstances.
Truth: NatWest does check your credit, but you can apply with less-than-perfect history. However, approval is not guaranteed, and poor credit often leads to higher APRs.
Truth: A loan can tidy up your payments, but it doesn’t change your income or help with budgeting. It may simply delay the root problem.
We’ll help you separate fact from fiction and understand every option — not just what the bank suggests.
Get Free, Honest Debt AdviceYou can apply, but approval depends on your credit score, income, and affordability. If your score is low, you may be offered high interest rates or be declined.
Rates typically range from 6% to over 30% APR. The actual rate depends on how much you borrow and your credit profile. Always check total repayable amounts.
It depends. Loans work best if your income is stable and you’re not already behind. If you’re struggling, an IVA or DMP might offer more flexibility, protection, or even partial debt write-off.
Yes. A full application will leave a hard search on your credit report. Multiple applications can lower your score further.
Absolutely. Many of our clients have been turned down for consolidation loans before finding a more suitable debt solution with our help.
Ask Us a Question or Get a Call BackWhether you’re considering a NatWest consolidation loan or just want to understand all your debt options, we’re here to help — with free, friendly, and fast advice tailored to your needs.
Thousands have already taken the first step toward a fresh financial start. Now it’s your turn. If you’re unsure what to do, or just want to weigh up the risks of a NatWest loan, speak to us first.
Find Your Best Option Today