The 2025 annual report records 2,234 consultations – 169 more than in the previous year
Demand for support with financial problems has continued to rise in Darmstadt. This is according to the 2025 annual report of the city's debt and insolvency counseling service, which the city council has now taken note of. A total of 2,234 counseling sessions were conducted last year, 169 more than in 2024.
The advice center, which has been operating since 1985, supports people facing debt or over-indebtedness. In addition to debt settlement, its services include securing financial livelihoods, advising on protection against garnishment, and preventative measures.
More than 1,300 debt settlement consultations
Of the 2,234 consultations, 1,338 were aimed at settling existing debts. A further 555 were brief consultations focused on managing acute financial crises, particularly securing livelihoods and protecting against enforcement measures.
A further 341 consultations took place by telephone or email. In addition, the advice center issued 245 certificates for increased exemption limits in cases of account garnishment.
Early intervention should prevent serious consequences
Mayor and Social Affairs Officer Barbara Akdeniz sees the increasing demand as proof of the importance of the municipal advisory services.
“As more and more people seek support in managing their financial situation, easily accessible and reliable debt counselling is indispensable,” explains Akdeniz.
Over-indebtedness can restrict social participation, exacerbate personal crises, and in the worst case, lead to homelessness. Early counseling can help prevent such developments and regain financial stability.
According to the social affairs officer, the advice also helps to avoid long-term social costs and to reduce dependence on social benefits.
New director encourages those affected to seek help
Larissa Gregarek has taken over the management of the city's debt and insolvency counseling service. She emphasizes that financial difficulties can affect people in very different life situations.
“The triggers for financial problems can be very individual and can affect any and every one of us,” explains Gregarek. The team supports citizens in regaining an overview of their financial situation and developing ways out of the crisis.
Anyone with questions or who needs support can contact the advice center. Together, they will examine their individual situation and look for suitable solutions.
Contact the debt and insolvency advice service
Office for Social Affairs and Prevention,
Department of Debt and Insolvency Counseling,
Frankfurter Straße 71,
64293 Darmstadt
Telephone: 06151 13-3496
Email: Schuldnerberatung@darmstadt.de
(DARMSTADT – RED/PSD/acl/stip)
