Debt bondage

If you’re being told you’re in debt, worried about your safety, or you’re having to do things to pay someone back then you’re not alone. It’s never too late to get support.

Content warning: This page mentions of sexual abuse

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What is debt bondage?

Debt bondage is when someone forces or pressures you to do things and they tell you that you’re in their debt. They may say that you owe them money, drugs, or something you’ve been given.

Sometimes you might be told you’re in debt without being given a reason, or as an excuse to threaten you.

You might be forced to:

  • work for someone to pay them back
  • deliver packages or hold onto things
  • do something sexual, or send sexual images
  • commit crimes or take part in something illegal
  • hurt someone, or do other jobs for them.

You might be told you owe someone money or that you owe them for something you thought was a gift. Whatever’s happening, you don’t have to deal with it alone. You can speak to us any time and get confidential support.

5 things to remember:
  • Nobody has the right to force you to do things because you ‘owe’ them
  • If you’re being told to deliver things, you can get support
  • There are ways to get support for you and people you care about
  • If someone tells you you’re in their debt, get support as soon as possible
  • You’re not alone

Dealing with debt bondage

If you’re being threatened or forced to do things because of a debt, there are things you can do:

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to talk

Speak to Childline to get support any time

Where to get help

There are lots of organisations here to support you:

  • Childline
    Childline is here 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. Talk to us online or on the phone about anything that’s happening. Find out more about our confidentiality promise.
  • SafeCall
    Call or text Safecall on 116 000 to get free, confidential support if you’re being told to carry drugs or weapons, or you’re involved in a gang. Find out more.
  • Fearless
    Give information about any crime anonymously and without fear of judgement. Find out more.
  • Police
    If you’re worried about your safety, or the safety of anyone else, you can always speak to the police.
  • People in your life
    Remember that anyone that’s working with you is there to support you. You can talk to them or another adult you trust about anything that’s happening.