Countless people are struggling to buy food and heat their homes, let alone pay their mortgage.

The fear of being unable to pay for your home can be overwhelming.

It’s easy to feel trapped and like there is no way out of this dilemma but we’ve got some tips on how to cope with expensive mortgage payments.

We spoke to Gus Harding, founder of Harding Mortgages, to get advice which not only protects you legally but also looks after your wellbeing.

Avoid the ‘I’ll do it tomorrow’ mindset

When a financial problem arises it can be easy to pretend like it’s not really there and bury the emails and envelopes you don’t want to open.

But this mindset can be really damaging to your finances and wellbeing.

Gus tells Metro.co.uk: ‘Avoid applying a ‘I’ll do it tomorrow’, mindset and navigate your finances ASAP.

‘Whether it’s a reduction in working hours, a rise in energy bills or unforeseen circumstances that lead you to struggle with mortgage repayments, seek a solution straight away.

‘Firstly, speak to your lender about agreed-upon changes to your repayment schedule.’

It’s all well and good speaking to your lender but what can they do?

‘Your lender is the expert and will be able to present options that you are likely to be unaware of, easing your anxiety straight away.

‘It’s also possible that you may be eligible for government schemes such as the Support for Mortgage Interest scheme.

‘Your mortgage lender will be able to advise you on the criteria of each option and the likelihood of you being accepted.’

Financial and wellbeing support

Seeking help makes you smart, not silly. Getting support when it comes to your finances can only ever be a good thing.

Gus says: ‘If you are struggling to keep up with your mortgage repayments, it is important to seek help as soon as possible to avoid getting into arrears.’

To put it simply, arrears is money that is owed that should have been paid earlier.

Gus adds: ‘There are several charities that offer support to those struggling with debt.

‘Charities such as StepChange can advise on debt management plans, equity release and even bankruptcy.

‘Charities such as mind can aid in the link between money management and mental health as well as point you in the right direction to helpful resources and support groups.’

Lose the taboo

Sharing is always caring. Just because money seems like a hush hush subject, it doesn’t mean you should keep any troubles from family or friends who care about you.

It may be hard to open up at first but those who mean well will try to help you find solutions you may not have thought of.

Gus says: ‘Discussing our finances with friends and family can feel very personal and almost taboo.

‘As unique as our finances are to us, you may be surprised to learn how many of those around you are experiencing similar worries.

‘There should be no embarrassment to admit to those we trust if we are struggling.

‘Ensure that you do not struggle alone and seek emotional support from loved ones.’

Come up with a plan

If you try to stumble though a problem with no set way to tackle it, it’s going to prove far trickier than it needs to be.

Gus says: ‘Drafting a plan of action is a great way to ease anxiety as it serves as a tangible asset to go back to when your worries surface.

‘Make your plan of action as detailed as possible, even presenting how much you will aim to save on a day-to-day basis.

‘Such a strategy provides clarity to the situation and stops your mind wandering to the worst-case scenario.’

Insure yourself

In this cost of living crisis we are counting on our jobs more than ever, to simply keep us afloat, so protecting yourself from anything that could go wrong, especially if you lack job security is key.

Guys says: ‘Mortgage payment Protection Insurance may pay your mortgage in events such as redundancy, sickness, or accident.

‘Investing in such insurance can future proof our payments and ease your mind I the current unsettled climate.’

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