Let's talk about Moving in 2026 on Blue Monday

19 Jan, 2026

Making 2026 the year you move – renting or buying

If 2026 is the year you want to move home, you’re not alone. Whether you’re dreaming of buying your first place, upsizing, downsizing, or simply finding a better rental, the start of the year is a powerful time to reset and plan. And the good news? There’s more help available than many people realise.

Moving can feel overwhelming, especially if money worries, debt, or rising living costs are holding you back. But step by step, support is out there to help you move forward.

Struggling with debt before you can save a deposit?

For many would-be movers, debt is the biggest barrier. Credit cards, overdrafts, buy-now-pay-later, or unexpected bills can make saving feel impossible. Before giving up on your plans, it’s worth knowing that free, confidential debt help is widely available.

Where to turn for help with clearing debt

  • StepChange
    One of the UK’s leading debt charities, StepChange offers free advice, personalised debt plans, and practical support to help you regain control.
  • Citizens Advice
    Citizens Advice can help with debt, benefits, housing rights, and budgeting, especially useful if your finances and housing situation overlap.
  • MoneyHelper
    Backed by the government, MoneyHelper provides tools, calculators, and impartial guidance on debt, saving, and preparing to buy or rent.
  • National Debtline
    A trusted source of free, confidential advice by phone or online, especially helpful if you want clear explanations of your options.

Clearing or restructuring debt doesn’t mean your moving plans are over, in many cases, it’s the first positive step towards them.

Support for renters in 2026

If renting is your next move, there’s help here too:

  • Local councils can advise on housing options, rent support, and discretionary housing payments.
  • Tenants’ rights advice from Citizens Advice
    can help if you’re facing rent increases or landlord issues.
  • Budgeting support can help you plan for deposits, moving costs, and ongoing rent.

Renting can also be a strategic step while you rebuild credit or save gradually for a future purchase.

Help for buyers: from first deposit to moving day

If buying is your goal, 2026 still offers routes forward:

  • Mortgage brokers can help you understand what’s realistic and how debt affects affordability.
  • Credit improvement guidance from debt charities can boost your chances of approval.
  • Lifetime ISAs and savings tools (explained by MoneyHelper) can make your deposit work harder.

Buying a home isn’t about perfection, it’s about preparation.

Your wellbeing matters too

Money stress and moving plans can take a toll on mental health. If today’s “Blue Monday” feelings are hitting hard, remember you don’t have to carry it alone. The Samaritans are there 24/7 for anyone who needs to talk, whether it’s about finances, housing, or simply feeling overwhelmed.

Sometimes, the most important first step isn’t financial at all, it’s putting the kettle on, taking a breath, and asking for support.

Make this your Brew Monday turning point ☕

2026 doesn’t have to be about pressure or perfection. Whether you’re renting, buying, clearing debt, or just getting organised, help is available at every stage.

One conversation, one plan, one small step at a time, this could be the year you move forward.

Staff at all of our five branches are always available for a confidential chat or just some advice on your moving issues, please feel free to contact us anytime. 

Anyone can contact Samaritans free any time from any phone on 116 123, even a mobile without credit. Or you can email jo@samaritans.org or visit www.samaritans.org for more information.

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