At Rooted Finance, we see that the impact of financial hardships goes well beyond the debt; it profoundly affects people’s lives; they are deeply intertwined with the health and well-being of individuals.  

We recently supported one of our NHS primary care partners, Mission Practice in Tower Hamlets, who work to train future doctors by providing them with first-hand insights into the real-life challenges that their patients face. This allows the students to have a deeper understanding of the significant effects of finances, poverty, and debt on the health and well-being of clients across London. The 5th year medical students had a placement with us at Rooted Finance, this included overview of the debt advice process, observing debt advice appointments, and participating in debrief and question and answer session with our Advice Manager. 

Our Key Insights from observation visits and feedback discussion 

The Influence of Debt on Health: The observations made during discussions revealed a significant relationship between financial strain and declining mental health. Clients frequently express emotional distress often linked to mounting debts, which often exacerbates pre-existing health conditions. When the students observed a client debt advice appointment, they gave feedback that they saw the clear link the clients gave with their arthritis symptoms worsening due to insufficient heating in their home — an issue directly tied to financial instability. The students noted that financial uncertainty elevated stress levels, adversely affecting the overall quality of life. 

Awareness of debt support available: The students recognised they had an awareness gap on community support and particularly debt advice and felt there was a critical need for healthcare professionals to actively connect patients with community debt advice organisations like Rooted Finance, ensuring that help is seen as part of holistic healthcare. 

The Role of Primary Care: The students and aspiring GP’ feedback the necessity of incorporating debt advice into GP practices. They emphasised the need for training on financial support resources to better assist patients in crisis. Recommendations included creating awareness projects about local money and debt services and establishing effective referral systems to ensure patients receive comprehensive support. 

Health Outcomes Influenced by Debt: The link between financial challenges and adverse health effects cannot be overstated. Issues like heightened stress, reduced mobility, and increased healthcare costs were observed as direct consequences of financial strain. Addressing these debt issues not only enhances patient wellness but also alleviates stress and boosts mental health. 

During the observations the students met a client Lillian *Name changed for confidentiality:

Lillian, a single women in her 40’s, of Black African heritage, was living with her two children in social housing in Hackney. As a senior NHS nurse, living with several health conditions and also in receipt of Personal Independence Payment and Child Benefits. Lillian fell into debt totalling £12,600 due to energy debts, DWP overpayments, and taking out a bank loan. She sought our help after struggling with her finances for several years while supporting both her adult children and family members abroad. The students witnessed our discussion on potential debt solutions tailored to Lillian’s situation, as well as offering emergency support through Foodbank vouchers for her and her family.

The students shared there reflections with us:

• “This observation has greatly enhanced my learning and broadened my understanding of the challenges individuals face in managing finances.” 

• “Now that I have more awareness, if I ever need debt help or know someone who does, I will definitely refer them to Rooted Finance.” 

• “This experience helped me grasp the inherent connections between mental health and financial situations.”         

Dr. Louise Vaughan, a GP at Mission Practice feedback, “This has been a hugely beneficial experience for the students and gives them vital awareness of the work and money and debt advice support available within the community for patients. I would be really keen to do this again with another bunch of students next academic year.”