It seems to be a Hit and miss type of thing. I had a loan for 16 k (secured) with welcome - total repayable = 39k!!!! some staff at welcome was really helpful and some were not.. they did help me out, but at a cost.. remember they need to make their money too and will do it by any means neccessary!!! I was told that I could make extra payments to clear it down quicker (without any penaties) - but I remortgage and cleared it off - as much as i am struggling I have learnt not to get a loan to pay your debt, instead contact the people you owe money to and negotiate how much you can pay them - i have about 20 creditors - i negotiated to pay most of them £10 a couple at £40 (my total debt is 35k) - I sometimes still think should i just get a loan to just make one payment - but I think with putting house at risk by trusting any loan company is not a good idea. Think carefully!!