James's journey to better credit

Small steps to big peace of mind

Written by Vanessa Stewart and Hayley Bevan

Published on December 5th, 2025

Last reviewed on December 5th, 2025

2 mins read

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When your credit score isn’t where you want it to be, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or even a little ashamed. However, James’s story shows that with a bit of patience, the right support and smart tools, it is possible to feel in control again.

Putting the past behind him

James wasn’t proud of his credit score – it reflected the financial mistakes he’d made when he was younger. ‘I felt ashamed actually, because my credit score wasn’t very good at the time.’

It was a tough place to be, but he knew something had to change. ‘I really needed to get this sorted.’

His experience echoes what many others across the UK are feeling. According to our Aqua UK Consumer Money Attitudes 2025 report, 37% of people have or have had a bad credit score. But that doesn’t mean it has to stay that way.

Small wins led to big changes

James took things one step at a time, using the support available to him through Aqua and Aqua Coach – which offered helpful tips, personalised guidance and reminders to keep him on track. And with the live chat feature available, help was never far away . ‘I chose the Aqua card because my credit file was bad, causing me a lot of anxiety. Aqua was the only one who gave me that opportunity because everybody else had turned me down.’
As small wins began to add up, his confidence started to return. ‘I thought OMG, I’m doing something right.’

Gaining peace of mind

As James’s credit score improved*, he was gradually able to relax from his financial worries. ‘I feel like I’m in control of my money again.’ He also said he no longer stresses about unexpected costs now that he’s better prepared. ‘I know that I’m financially okay if something breaks down in the house. I don’t have to worry anymore.’

Opening an Aqua account made it possible

‘It’s the best thing I’ve done because it’s enabled me to have that stability and know that I can control my spending’, James says.

His journey is a reminder that rebuilding credit is possible – even when it doesn’t feel that way at first. With a credit builder card like Aqua and Aqua Coach’s smart tools by your side, you don’t have to do it alone.

Thinking about your next step? Discover how Aqua Coach and our live chat feature can help you build better credit the smart way and at your own pace.

Representative 39.9% APR (variable)

*With Aqua, your credit score could grow if you manage your account well.

Failure to make payments on time or to stay within your credit limit means that you will pay additional charges and may make obtaining credit in the future more expensive and difficult.

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