Ascent.co.uk Review

Based on looking at the website, Ascent.co.uk presents itself as a company dedicated to supporting financial wellbeing, primarily focusing on debt management and offering advice to individuals facing financial difficulties. However, a strict ethical review from an Islamic perspective reveals significant concerns that lead us to strongly discourage its use. The primary issue lies in the inherent nature of conventional debt collection and financial services, which often involve interest-based transactions (riba), a practice unequivocally forbidden in Islam. While the website emphasises honesty, transparency, and integrity, the foundational financial models prevalent in such services typically clash with Islamic principles.

Overall Review Summary:

• Purpose: Debt collection and financial wellbeing support.
• Key Services: Debt advice, budget review, payment solutions.
• Ethical Stance (Islamic): Not recommended.
• Primary Concern: Likelihood of involvement with interest-based transactions (riba).
• Transparency: States values of honesty, transparency, and integrity.
• Customer Feedback: Links to Trustpilot for reviews.
• Missing from Homepage: Clear, explicit declaration of adherence to Sharia-compliant financial practices, detailed breakdown of their financial models, or any mention of interest-free solutions.

The absence of any clear statement or commitment to Sharia-compliant financial practices on Ascent.co.uk’s homepage is a major red flag. In the world of finance, if a service doesn’t explicitly state it’s operating on an interest-free basis, it’s generally safe to assume it’s operating within the conventional, interest-based system. This makes it problematic for Muslims seeking ethical financial solutions. While the company claims to “support financial wellbeing” and help assess “current circumstances,” the underlying mechanism of how they handle existing debts or facilitate new financial arrangements is crucial. Without this transparency, it’s impossible to verify their ethical alignment with Islamic principles.

Best Ethical Financial Alternatives (UK Focused):

1. National Debtline

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   • Key Features: Free, independent, confidential debt advice via phone and webchat. Offers budgeting tools and information on various debt solutions. A charity service focused purely on advice, not collection.
   • Average Price: Free.
   • Pros: Entirely free, independent, trusted by UK consumers, focuses on empowering individuals with knowledge.
   • Cons: Does not directly manage debt or payments, only provides advice.

2. Citizens Advice

   • Key Features: Comprehensive advice service across many areas, including debt and money. Offers face-to-face, phone, and online guidance. Helps explore debt solutions like Debt Relief Orders or Individual Voluntary Arrangements.
   • Average Price: Free.
   • Pros: Broad range of support beyond just debt, local offices available, highly reputable.
   • Cons: Can have waiting times for in-person appointments.

3. StepChange Debt Charity

   • Key Features: Free debt advice and practical solutions, including Debt Management Plans (DMPs), Individual Voluntary Arrangements (IVAs), and bankruptcy support. Helps consolidate payments to creditors.
   • Average Price: Free (funded by voluntary contributions from creditors).
   • Pros: Manages the communication and payments with creditors, comprehensive range of solutions, highly respected.
   • Cons: Still operates within the conventional financial system, although it’s a charity focused on debt relief, not profit.

4. Halal Investment Platforms (e.g., Wahed Invest)

   • Key Features: Fully Sharia-compliant investment portfolios. Avoids interest-based instruments, alcohol, tobacco, gambling, and conventional finance. Focuses on ethical wealth building.
   • Average Price: Management fees apply (e.g., 0.99% for portfolios under £5000, 0.49% for over £5000).
   • Pros: Strict adherence to Islamic finance principles, easy-to-use platform, diversified portfolios.
   • Cons: Primarily for investing, not debt management. Fees can impact returns over time.

5. Zakat Funds / Islamic Charities

   

   • Key Features: Many Islamic charities offer direct financial assistance or debt relief programmes, often funded by Zakat and Sadaqah. These are needs-based and strictly interest-free.
   • Average Price: Free (for recipients).
   • Pros: Direct, interest-free support, deeply ethical, focuses on community welfare.
   • Cons: Eligibility criteria apply, limited availability, primarily for those in dire need.

6. Interest-Free Microfinance Initiatives (e.g., Islamic Bank of Britain’s community finance)

   • Key Features: Some Islamic banks or community initiatives offer small, interest-free loans or financing for specific needs (e.g., business start-up, education).
   • Average Price: Free (no interest).
   • Pros: Fully Sharia-compliant, supports economic empowerment.
   • Cons: Limited in scope and availability, often requires strong justification and repayment plans.

7. Budgeting Apps & Tools (e.g., YNAB, Plum, Monzo)

   • Key Features: Tools to help track income and expenditure, set financial goals, and manage money effectively. Focus on self-discipline and financial planning.
   • Average Price: Many offer free basic versions, premium features can be subscription-based (e.g., YNAB is £11.99/month or £84/year).
   • Pros: Empowers individuals to take control of their finances, promotes sound financial habits, diverse options available.
   • Cons: Requires consistent effort and discipline from the user.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

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Ascent.co.uk Review & First Look

Based on checking the website, Ascent.co.uk positions itself as a company that supports “financial wellbeing,” particularly for individuals struggling with debt. The homepage prominently displays their purpose, stating, “Together we support financial wellbeing,” which sounds commendable on the surface. They claim to operate with “honesty, transparency and integrity” and offer “Advice & Help” and “Ways to Pay.” However, for a user seeking a truly ethical and permissible financial solution, especially from an Islamic perspective, the initial impression raises more questions than answers. The site doesn’t offer any explicit information about its financial models, whether they are interest-based or interest-free, or if they offer any Sharia-compliant services. This lack of detail is a significant concern for ethical consumers.

What is Ascent.co.uk?

Ascent.co.uk appears to be a debt collection and debt management firm. Their focus is on discussing options with individuals about their financial circumstances and developing a way forward. This typically involves liaising with creditors and arranging payment plans. They mention “Customer Outcomes by Ascent site,” which suggests a focus on the results they achieve for their clients in managing financial obligations. The key takeaway from the homepage is their role in helping individuals navigate financial difficulties, which often means dealing with existing debts.

Initial Impressions for Ethical Consumers

When evaluating a financial service, particularly from an Islamic ethical standpoint, the absence of explicit information about interest (riba) is a major red flag. Ascent.co.uk’s homepage, while appearing professional and user-friendly, completely bypasses this critical detail. They highlight values like “honesty” and “transparency,” but these are broad terms. True transparency for an ethical consumer would involve disclosing their operational models regarding interest, particularly how they manage debt portfolios, negotiate with creditors, and what kind of financial arrangements they facilitate. Without this, it’s highly probable they operate within conventional finance, which is rife with interest-based transactions.

Ascent.co.uk Ethical Considerations (Islamic Perspective)

From an Islamic ethical viewpoint, Ascent.co.uk’s services are highly problematic, if not entirely impermissible. The core issue revolves around the pervasive nature of riba (interest) in conventional financial systems. While Ascent.co.uk presents itself as a helper in financial distress, their services are intrinsically linked to a system built on interest-bearing loans and debts.

The Prohibition of Riba (Interest) in Islam

Islam unequivocally prohibits riba, which encompasses any predetermined excess or increment charged on a loan. This prohibition is not merely a moral suggestion but a fundamental principle enshrined in the Quran and Sunnah. Allah (SWT) states in the Quran: “Allah has permitted trade and forbidden interest” (Quran 2:275). The rationale behind this prohibition is multifaceted: it promotes economic justice, prevents exploitation, encourages risk-sharing (as opposed to risk transfer), and ensures that wealth circulates in the real economy rather than accumulating through usurious practices. Any involvement in transactions where interest is charged or paid, directly or indirectly, is considered sinful. Indeedflex.co.uk Review

Ascent.co.uk and Conventional Debt Management

Ascent.co.uk’s primary function, as inferred from their homepage, is debt management and collection. In the UK, this typically involves:

• Dealing with existing interest-bearing debts: The debts customers are struggling with are almost certainly conventional loans, credit cards, or mortgages, all of which accrue interest. Even if Ascent.co.uk doesn’t charge interest themselves, their service facilitates the management and repayment of these interest-laden obligations.
• Negotiating with creditors: Creditors are usually conventional banks or financial institutions that operate on interest. Any settlement or payment plan negotiated by Ascent.co.uk would still be within the framework of these interest-based agreements.
• Potential for interest on their own services: While they don’t explicitly state it, some debt management companies, though not Ascent.co.uk based on the provided text, might charge fees that could, in some interpretations, have an indirect link to the interest structure of the debts. However, the main concern here is facilitating the repayment of riba-laden debts.

Lack of Sharia-Compliance Disclosure

The absence of any mention of “Sharia-compliant,” “Islamic finance,” “interest-free,” or similar terms on Ascent.co.uk’s homepage is a strong indicator that their operations are not aligned with Islamic principles. Reputable Islamic financial service providers go to great lengths to highlight their adherence to Sharia, often backed by Sharia supervisory boards. Ascent.co.uk makes no such claims, leading to the conclusion that they operate within the conventional financial system. For Muslims, this means their services are likely not permissible.

Ascent.co.uk Pros & Cons

Given our ethical framework, the “pros” are heavily overshadowed by the “cons” when evaluating Ascent.co.uk. The ethical concerns surrounding interest-based finance mean that even potential benefits are problematic from an Islamic perspective.

Cons (from an Islamic Ethical Standpoint)

• Involvement with Riba (Interest): This is the paramount concern. Ascent.co.uk facilitates the management and repayment of conventional, interest-bearing debts. While they might help individuals manage their repayments, the underlying transactions involve interest, which is strictly forbidden in Islam. This makes the service impermissible for Muslims.
• Lack of Sharia-Compliance: There is no indication or explicit statement on their website that Ascent.co.uk adheres to Islamic financial principles or offers Sharia-compliant solutions. This strongly suggests they operate within the conventional financial system.
• Promoting Engagement with Conventional Finance: By offering solutions for conventional debt, Ascent.co.uk inadvertently promotes continued engagement with a financial system fundamentally at odds with Islamic teachings.
• No Interest-Free Alternatives: The website does not suggest or facilitate any interest-free debt solutions, such as Qard Hasan (benevolent loans) or Zakat-based assistance for those in dire need, which would be the only permissible avenues for debt relief in Islam.

Limited “Pros” (from a Conventional Perspective, Still Problematic for Muslims)

• Aimed at Financial Wellbeing (Conventionally): From a purely conventional perspective, a service that helps individuals manage and potentially reduce stress from financial issues could be seen as beneficial. They state their purpose is “Together we support financial wellbeing.”
• Emphasis on Transparency and Integrity: The website explicitly mentions building their business on “honesty, transparency and integrity.” While these are good values, they don’t override the fundamental issue of riba.
• Customer Support Availability: They provide a clear contact number (0345 604 0860) and mention “highly trained teams,” indicating accessibility for those seeking help.
• Links to Trustpilot: Their direct link to Trustpilot reviews (e.g., https://uk.trustpilot.com/review/ascent.co.uk) offers a degree of external validation regarding customer experience with their service, though this doesn’t address the ethical permissibility. As of late 2023, Ascent.co.uk had a “Great” rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot from over 2,000 reviews, with 78% of reviews being 5-star. This suggests operational effectiveness in conventional terms.

Ascent.co.uk Alternatives

Given the ethical concerns regarding Ascent.co.uk’s likely involvement with interest-based financial systems, it’s crucial to explore alternatives that are either completely independent of conventional finance or are purely advisory, directing individuals towards permissible solutions.

Halal & Ethical Alternatives for Debt Management and Financial Guidance

1. Free Independent Debt Advice Charities: Littledessertshop.co.uk Review

   • National Debtline: A charity that provides free, independent debt advice over the phone and online. They help people understand their options and create action plans. They do not manage money or deal with creditors directly, but empower individuals with knowledge.
     • Why it’s a good alternative: They offer advice, not financial products. Their role is to inform, not to profit from debt. This makes them a permissible first point of contact for understanding debt issues.
   • StepChange Debt Charity: Offers free, confidential debt advice and practical solutions. They can set up Debt Management Plans (DMPs), which simplify payments to creditors, or advise on other formal solutions.
     • Why it’s a good alternative: While they interact with conventional creditors, their service is free to the client and their primary aim is debt relief, not profit. They help navigate existing (often haram) debt in a way that minimizes further transgression where possible, and helps one out of a difficult situation.
   • Citizens Advice: Provides comprehensive advice on various issues, including debt. They can help with budgeting, understanding rights, and exploring debt solutions.
     • Why it’s a good alternative: Similar to National Debtline, they offer free, impartial advice, focusing on empowerment and legal rights rather than financial products.

2. Islamic Financial Institutions (for new financing needs, not existing haram debt):

   • Al Rayan Bank (formerly Islamic Bank of Britain): Offers Sharia-compliant banking services, including mortgages (Ijara and Murabaha), savings accounts, and business finance. These are structured to avoid interest.
     • Why it’s a good alternative: For future financial needs (e.g., house purchase), engaging with a fully Sharia-compliant bank ensures transactions are permissible from the outset. Note: They do not provide debt advice for existing conventional debt.
   • Gatehouse Bank: Another UK-based Sharia-compliant bank offering various ethical financial products.
     • Why it’s a good alternative: Similar to Al Rayan Bank, they provide permissible alternatives for future financial arrangements.

3. Zakat and Charity Organisations:

   • Many Islamic charities and mosque community funds offer assistance to individuals struggling with debt, often in the form of Qard Hasan (benevolent loans) or direct grants from Zakat funds for those in severe hardship.
     • Why it’s a good alternative: This is the most ethically pure form of debt relief, as it involves no interest and is based on charity and brotherhood.
     • How to access: Contact local mosques, Islamic community centres, or national Islamic charities (e.g., Muslim Aid, Islamic Relief, National Zakat Foundation in the UK).

4. Budgeting and Financial Literacy Resources:

   • MoneyHelper (formerly Money Advice Service): A government-backed service providing free, impartial advice on money matters, including budgeting, saving, and debt.
     • Why it’s a good alternative: Focuses on empowering individuals with financial knowledge and tools to prevent future debt issues, without direct involvement in interest-based transactions.
   • Ethical Budgeting Apps: Many apps help track income and expenditure, promoting financial discipline. The key is to ensure they are simply tools for management and don’t facilitate haram transactions.
     • Why it’s a good alternative: These tools help individuals gain control over their finances, a key aspect of Islamic financial prudence, without compromising ethical principles.

How to Cancel Ascent.co.uk Engagement (Hypothetical)

While Ascent.co.uk’s primary function seems to be engaging with individuals who are already in debt and possibly have their accounts referred to Ascent, the concept of cancelling an “engagement” or “subscription” might not apply in the traditional sense, as it’s not a subscription service. Instead, it would be about discontinuing cooperation if you were a customer they were helping or if you were a creditor using their services. Given that the focus here is from a consumer’s perspective, this section assumes an individual has been in contact with Ascent.co.uk for debt management.

Understanding Your Agreement

If you’ve been in contact with Ascent.co.uk regarding debt management, the first step is to review any agreements or correspondence you have received from them. This will outline the terms of your engagement, whether they are acting as a debt collector on behalf of a creditor or as a debt management company advising you. Ascent.co.uk states their approach is built on “honesty, transparency and integrity,” implying they would have provided clear terms of service. Wevegotthekey.co.uk Review

Steps to Discontinue Engagement

1. Review Your Documentation: Check any letters, emails, or agreements from Ascent.co.uk. Look for clauses related to “ending agreement,” “discontinuation of service,” or “complaints procedure.”
2. Direct Communication: The most straightforward approach is to contact Ascent.co.uk directly. Their website prominently displays a “Customer Contact Team” phone number: 0345 604 0860. You should call this number and clearly state your intention to discontinue their services or cease communication regarding a particular debt.
   • Be Prepared: Have your account reference number, name, and address ready.
   • Keep Records: Make a note of the date and time of your call, the name of the person you spoke to, and a summary of the conversation.
3. Written Confirmation: Always follow up any phone call with a written confirmation. Send an email (if an email address is provided or found) or a letter by post. State clearly that you are formally withdrawing from their services or instructing them to cease contact.
   • Example Wording: “This letter serves as formal notification that I wish to discontinue any services or engagement with Ascent.co.uk concerning [your name/account number]. Please cease all communication and confirm receipt of this notice within [e.g., 7 working days].”
   • Proof of Postage: If sending by post, use recorded delivery to ensure proof of delivery.
4. Understand Implications: Before discontinuing, understand what this means for your original debt. Ascent.co.uk is typically an intermediary. Discontinuing with them means you will need to re-engage directly with your original creditors or seek alternative, permissible debt advice.
5. Seek Alternative Ethical Advice: As highlighted in the “Alternatives” section, immediately seek free, independent, and ethical debt advice from charities like National Debtline or StepChange Debt Charity. This is crucial to ensure you continue to manage your debt responsibly but in a way that aligns with your ethical values.

Ascent.co.uk Pricing

Ascent.co.uk’s homepage does not explicitly detail their pricing structure for individuals. This is a common characteristic for debt collection and debt management agencies, as their fees can vary significantly depending on the nature of the engagement, the type of debt, and whether they are working on behalf of a creditor or directly with a consumer.

What to Expect Regarding Pricing Models (General Context)

In the broader context of debt solutions in the UK, there are generally two main models:

1. Free Debt Advice Services: Organisations like National Debtline, StepChange Debt Charity, and Citizens Advice provide their services for free to individuals. These are often funded by government grants, voluntary contributions from creditors, or charitable donations. Ascent.co.uk does not explicitly state it is a free service, nor does it identify itself as a charity.
2. Paid Debt Management Companies: Some private companies charge fees for their debt management services. These fees can be:
   • Upfront fees: A one-off charge to set up a debt management plan.
   • Monthly fees: A recurring fee as long as the debt management plan is in place.
   • Percentage of debt: A fee calculated as a percentage of the total debt being managed.
   • Creditor-funded: In some cases, if Ascent.co.uk is acting as a debt collection agency, their fees might be paid by the original creditor from the recovered funds, rather than directly by the debtor.

Absence of Pricing Information on Ascent.co.uk

The lack of any pricing information on the Ascent.co.uk homepage suggests that pricing is either:

• Determined on a case-by-case basis after an initial consultation.
• Not directly charged to the individual debtor if they are operating primarily as a debt collection agency on behalf of creditors.
• Hidden or only disclosed during the consultation phase.

For an ethical consumer, the absence of clear pricing is a minor concern compared to the major issue of riba. However, transparency in pricing is generally a hallmark of trustworthy services. If one were to consider engaging with Ascent.co.uk, it would be absolutely vital to clarify all potential fees upfront, and to thoroughly scrutinise them to ensure they align with any ethical considerations, although from an Islamic perspective, the core service itself remains problematic regardless of the fee structure.

Ascent.co.uk vs. Alternatives

Comparing Ascent.co.uk with its alternatives highlights the stark contrast between conventional debt management and ethically sound approaches, particularly from an Islamic perspective. Bangstuff.co.uk Review

Ascent.co.uk: The Conventional Debt Intermediary (Not Recommended)

• Focus: Appears to be a debt collection and debt management firm that acts as an intermediary between debtors and creditors. Their stated aim is “supporting financial wellbeing” by helping individuals manage their existing (likely interest-based) debts.
• Ethical Stance (Islamic): Not recommended. The service operates within the conventional interest-based financial system, making it problematic due to the prohibition of riba. There is no explicit commitment to Sharia-compliance.
• Pricing Transparency: Lacks clear pricing information on the homepage, suggesting fees are disclosed during consultation or paid by creditors.
• Independence: Unclear how truly independent their advice is, especially if they are primarily acting as debt collectors or if their revenue model is linked to debt recovery.

Free Independent Debt Advice Charities (Recommended)

• Examples: National Debtline, StepChange Debt Charity, Citizens Advice.
• Focus: Provide free, impartial, and confidential debt advice. Their primary goal is to empower individuals to understand their options and take control of their finances, without directly profiting from the debt itself.
• Ethical Stance (Islamic): Recommended. While they operate within the conventional system, their role is purely advisory and humanitarian. They do not charge interest or profit from debt. They help individuals navigate existing difficult situations in the most responsible way possible.
• Pricing Transparency: Fully transparent – their services are free to the user.
• Independence: Highly independent, often regulated by bodies like the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and operating as registered charities.

Islamic Financial Institutions (Recommended for Future Needs)

• Examples: Al Rayan Bank, Gatehouse Bank.
• Focus: Offer fully Sharia-compliant financial products (e.g., mortgages, savings, business finance) that are structured to avoid interest (riba). They adhere to strict ethical guidelines.
• Ethical Stance (Islamic): Highly Recommended. These institutions are built from the ground up on Islamic ethical principles, offering permissible alternatives for financial needs.
• Pricing Transparency: Generally transparent about fees and profit rates, which are based on permissible trade and leasing models, not interest.
• Independence: Subject to both conventional financial regulation and Sharia compliance boards.

Zakat & Charity Organisations (Recommended for Hardship)

• Examples: National Zakat Foundation, local mosque funds, major Islamic charities.
• Focus: Provide direct, interest-free financial assistance or benevolent loans (Qard Hasan) to those in dire need, often from Zakat or Sadaqah funds.
• Ethical Stance (Islamic): Highly Recommended. This is the most ethically pure form of assistance, rooted in Islamic principles of charity and social responsibility, completely free of riba.
• Pricing Transparency: Free to recipients.
• Independence: Operate as charitable entities, often with robust governance structures.

Conclusion of Comparison: For anyone seeking financial guidance or debt solutions, especially those adhering to Islamic principles, free independent debt advice charities are unequivocally superior to services like Ascent.co.uk for managing existing (problematic) debt. For future financial needs, Islamic financial institutions provide the only permissible alternative. Ascent.co.uk, due to its likely involvement with interest-based finance, falls short of ethical requirements.

FAQ

Is Ascent.co.uk a legitimate company?

Yes, Ascent.co.uk appears to be a legitimate company operating in the UK, specialising in debt collection and financial wellbeing support. They have an active website, contact details, and a presence on Trustpilot, where they hold a “Great” rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from over 2,000 reviews as of late 2023.

What services does Ascent.co.uk provide?

Ascent.co.uk aims to support financial wellbeing by helping individuals assess their financial circumstances and develop a way forward regarding their debts. This includes offering “Advice & Help,” “Ways to Pay,” and a budget calculator. They typically act as an intermediary in debt management and collection.

Does Ascent.co.uk charge fees for its services?

Ascent.co.uk’s homepage does not explicitly detail its pricing structure. Fees for such services can vary and might be charged directly to the individual debtor, or paid by the original creditor from recovered funds if Ascent.co.uk is acting as a debt collection agency. It is essential to clarify any potential fees directly with them during initial contact.

Is Ascent.co.uk Sharia-compliant?

No, Ascent.co.uk does not appear to be Sharia-compliant. Their website makes no mention of Islamic finance principles, interest-free services, or Sharia supervisory boards. Their operations likely involve conventional interest-based financial systems, which are not permissible in Islam. Parsruggallery.co.uk Review

Why is interest (riba) forbidden in Islam?

Interest (riba) is forbidden in Islam because it is seen as an exploitative practice that generates wealth without real economic activity or risk-sharing. It promotes economic injustice, concentrates wealth, and can lead to hardship. Islamic finance promotes risk-sharing, equitable distribution of wealth, and transactions based on real assets and ethical trade.

What are the best ethical alternatives to Ascent.co.uk for debt advice in the UK?

The best ethical alternatives for debt advice in the UK are free, independent debt charities like National Debtline, StepChange Debt Charity, and Citizens Advice. These organisations provide impartial advice and solutions without charging fees to the individual, and they do not operate on an interest-based model themselves.

Can Ascent.co.uk help with an IVA (Individual Voluntary Arrangement)?

Ascent.co.uk’s website mentions offering “Advice & Help” and helping to “assess your current circumstances and develop a way forward.” While they don’t explicitly list IVAs, reputable debt management companies often advise on and facilitate such formal debt solutions. You would need to contact them directly to confirm if they support IVAs.

How do I contact Ascent.co.uk?

You can contact Ascent.co.uk’s Customer Contact Team by phone at 0345 604 0860. Their website also lists links to their “Advice & Help” and “Ways to Pay” sections for further information.

What is Ascent.co.uk’s Trustpilot rating?

As of late 2023, Ascent.co.uk has a “Great” rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot, based on over 2,000 reviews. This indicates a generally positive customer experience from a conventional perspective. Myoovi.co.uk Review

Is it possible to cancel my engagement with Ascent.co.uk?

Yes, if you have an agreement or are in communication with Ascent.co.uk, you can typically discontinue your engagement. It is crucial to review any documentation you have, contact them directly via phone (0345 604 0860), and follow up with written confirmation to ensure your request is formally recorded.

What should I do if my debt is referred to Ascent.co.uk?

If your debt is referred to Ascent.co.uk, it means they are likely acting on behalf of your original creditor. You should engage with them to understand the situation. However, for ethical guidance, immediately seek free, independent debt advice from organisations like National Debtline or StepChange Debt Charity to explore permissible ways to manage your debt.

Are there any Islamic banks that offer debt consolidation?

Islamic banks like Al Rayan Bank and Gatehouse Bank in the UK primarily offer Sharia-compliant financing for new needs (e.g., mortgages, personal finance) rather than debt consolidation for existing conventional (interest-based) debts. For existing problematic debt, Islamic charities or benevolent loans (Qard Hasan) are the preferred ethical avenues.

What is a Qard Hasan and how can it help with debt?

A Qard Hasan is a benevolent loan in Islam, given without any interest or additional charges. It is based on the principle of helping those in need for the sake of Allah. Some Islamic charities and community funds provide Qard Hasan to individuals struggling with debt, offering a truly interest-free solution to financial hardship.

Can I get help with budgeting from Ascent.co.uk?

Yes, Ascent.co.uk’s website mentions a “Review your budget” section and a “budget calculator,” indicating they offer tools and advice to help individuals manage their income and expenditure. Happydrains.co.uk Review

What are the risks of using conventional debt management services from an Islamic perspective?

The primary risk is involvement with riba (interest), which is strictly forbidden in Islam. Even if the service doesn’t directly charge interest, facilitating the repayment or management of interest-bearing debts can be problematic. It can also entrench individuals further into a financial system that contradicts Islamic principles.

How can I ensure my financial dealings are ethical in Islam?

To ensure your financial dealings are ethical in Islam, you should:

1. Avoid all forms of interest (riba).
2. Engage in transactions based on real assets and mutual consent.
3. Seek financing from Sharia-compliant institutions.
4. Practise honesty, transparency, and fairness in all dealings.
5. Prioritise permissible income sources and avoid prohibited investments.

Does Ascent.co.uk offer face-to-face advice?

Ascent.co.uk’s website highlights their “Customer Contact Team” and phone number (0345 604 0860), suggesting primary contact is over the phone. It doesn’t explicitly state whether they offer face-to-face appointments, unlike some charity debt advisors who have local offices.

What kind of “Advice & Help” does Ascent.co.uk offer?

Based on their homepage, their “Advice & Help” focuses on discussing financial options, assessing current circumstances, and developing a way forward for individuals dealing with financial issues. This generally pertains to managing and repaying debts.

How can I find an Islamic charity to help with debt?

You can find Islamic charities offering debt assistance by searching online for “Islamic charities UK debt relief,” “Zakat funds UK,” or contacting local mosques and Islamic community centres. Many national Islamic charities also have specific programs for those in financial hardship. Vizionnetwork.co.uk Review

Why is it important to seek independent debt advice?

It’s important to seek independent debt advice because such advisors are impartial and work solely in your best interest. They are not tied to any specific creditor or financial product and can offer a full range of debt solutions, ensuring you receive comprehensive and unbiased guidance.