Credit Awareness Week 2026: Driving the Next Decade of Responsible Credit

Credit Awareness Week returns in 2026, continuing its mission to champion financial inclusion, improve consumer understanding of credit, and bring together the organisations shaping the future of financial services.

In partnership with Experian, the initiative has become a key moment in the industry calendar, uniting lenders, policymakers, regulators and technology innovators to address the most pressing challenges facing the UK’s credit landscape.

At a time when many households are navigating financial pressure and rising living costs, improving public understanding of credit has never been more important.

Credit Awareness Week looks to spark meaningful industry dialogue while highlighting practical solutions that help consumers access fair, responsible and sustainable credit.

Bridging the Credit Knowledge Gap

New research released for Credit Awareness Week highlights a significant knowledge gap around debt consolidation - a tool that could help many households simplify repayments and reduce borrowing costs.

The research shows that two in three people with debt (65%) say it affects their ability to make important financial decisions, including building savings or making larger purchases. Despite this, only 17% of consumers say they fully understand debt consolidation, even though it can play a crucial role in helping people regain control of their finances.

Experian’s latest Financial Inclusion Whitepaper suggests that consumers could save an average of £1,257 per year in interest charges by consolidating unoptimised debt. More broadly, wider adoption of consolidation tools could unlock £15.1 billion in household spending and generate £2.1 billion in additional savings annually.

The findings highlight why initiatives like Credit Awareness Week are vital - not only to raise awareness among consumers but also to encourage the industry to innovate and collaborate in delivering better financial outcomes.

The Parliamentary Reception: Where Policy Meets Practice

A key moment within Credit Awareness Week is the Parliamentary Reception, an invite-only event held at the House of Commons.

Bringing together around 200 senior industry leaders and members of the Credit 500 Club, the reception creates a unique environment where policymakers, regulators and financial services professionals can engage directly on the future of consumer finance.

Hosted by Credit Strategy in the corridors of power, the event is designed to bridge the gap between policy development and the professionals implementing those policies across the industry.

Discussions will explore some of the most pressing issues facing the sector, including:

• Debt and financial inclusion

• The future of financial services

• Responsible lending and credit access

• Debt consolidation and consumer support

• Diversity and inclusion in financial services

As well as an address from the FCA’s director of consumer finance, Alison Walters on priorities for the consumer finance sector in 2026.

The reception provides an important platform for collaboration, ensuring that the voices of industry practitioners contribute to shaping policy and regulatory priorities.

Recognising Industry Leadership

During the reception, Credit Strategy will also officially unveil two of its most influential annual lists:

• The Credit 500 2026 - recognising individuals from banks, lenders and creditors shaping the future of credit and financial services

• The Partnership 100 2026 - celebrating the leading suppliers in the credit and financial services sector

These recognitions highlight the people and organisations leading progress across the credit ecosystem.

A Shared Commitment to Better Financial Outcomes

As the industry continues to navigate economic uncertainty and evolving regulatory expectations, collaboration across the credit ecosystem remains critical.

Now in its 10th year, Credit Awareness Week reflects a shared commitment to improving financial resilience, expanding access to responsible credit, and empowering consumers with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed financial decisions.

With the support of Experian and engagement from policymakers, regulators and industry leaders, Credit Awareness Week continues to play an important role in shaping a more inclusive and sustainable credit landscape.

Join us at Credit Week to continue the conversation.