Chronic illness can raise need for advice on bankruptcy

Published on July 11, 2014 by Crawfords Accounting

Advice on bankruptcy can be needed for a wide range of different reasons, and chronic illness may be among the hardest to tackle.

Health problems can be difficult to overcome when they prevent you from working – and several high-profile cases prove that even celebrities can fall foul of poor health.

A report from the Debt Advisory Centre notes the case of Martine McCutcheon, who entered bankruptcy in January 2013 when she was unable to work due to ME.

Singer Toni Braxton, meanwhile, sought advice on bankruptcy after ill health meant she had to cancel a performance in Las Vegas and cover the associated costs.

Ian Williams, spokesperson for the Debt Advisory Centre, said: “Chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome may not be viewed as life-threatening, but they certainly could impact the sufferer’s ability to work, potentially causing them financial hardship.”

At present, changes in the law are making it easier to request flexible working conditions – which employers must give genuine consideration – and this could make it possible to retain a job even in light of illness.

However, for those living with the long-term financial impacts of ill health, our advisors are available to consider any options in terms of bankruptcy or personal insolvency.

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