ONSbank’s approach is grounded in the belief that solving debt problems requires more than just training in financial administration. People with debts must also have the energy to tackle life and change behavior. And this is easier if you know who you are and what you want, can feel your self-esteem and can see opportunities again.

Art, music, sports and theater help to find an answer to questions such as: who am I, what can I do and what do I want? And what is holding me back? The ONSbank program lasts a total of 6 months and is free of charge for participants.

Spokesperson for young people

We talked to Tiffany, spokesperson for young people with debts, based on her own experience. “When I was depressed, my finances were my lowest priority. When I regained control of myself again, it turned out that I had been receiving allowances that I wasn’t entitled to. I also had tickets for traffic violations, which went up fast with late fees and penalties. My total debt was around 5,000 euros, not including my student loan.”

With the help of her debt relief coach from Stichting ONSbank, she regained an overview. Together they got a full picture of her situation and arranged payment plans. ONSbank also offered group sessions and a creative workshop program, in which participants learn to look differently at themselves and their futures.