Christians Against Poverty launches ‘Don’t Wait For Debt Help’ campaign
Christians Against Poverty – CAP is concerned many people affected by the pandemic may delay getting debt help – as the charity reveals almost 60% of their clients waited over a year before seeking advice.
National debt counselling charity, CAP, has launched a campaign to urge people affected by the pandemic to get debt help now. CAP is concerned that many people struggling financially because of COVID-19 may not know where to turn for free debt help.
In a time when young people are also being hit particularly hard in terms of employment, CAP’s data suggests they are the least likely to seek support. The recent study, Is Anyone Listening? revealed just 7% of new CAP clients were aged 18-25 years old.
In London the report showed the average client household owed almost £17,000 at the peak of their debts. On average it would take people 30 years to repay what they owed. CAP helps people to break free from debt.
CAP client Steven, from the West Midlands, was recently made redundant from his retail job due to the pandemic and then his debts began to spiral out of control: “It made me feel really low and added a lot of pressure on my shoulders. It was a really dark time. I felt like giving up.”
Steven called CAP before things got any worse: “Making the first call was the hardest thing I’ve had to do this year but once I started talking to CAP I realised they were a friendly bunch of people who genuinely cared about me.
“Now CAP’s involved I can concentrate on rebuilding my life and getting a new job. I feel hopeful again and I feel like I can breathe.”
He now wants to encourage others in his situation to call CAP for support: “Right now, many people who have worked hard are losing their jobs through no fault of their own. I urge them to ring CAP, get help and rebuild their lives.”
Since the pandemic hit, the CAP Debt Help service has adapted to follow social distancing guidelines to stay safe whilst still offering its award winning debt help, along with unique support, across the local area.
Helen Webb, CAP’s National External Partnerships Manager, is encouraging people to call the charity today: “We know that because of the pandemic, many people are experiencing debt for the first time and for others debts are growing, but CAP is here to help.
“So many people are experiencing financial worries right now, so you’re not alone in your struggle. You won’t be judged in any way. Help is available to support you through this difficult time and into a brighter future.
“Getting help as early as possible can make a big difference. We want everyone to know that our service is here and completely free of charge.
“We don’t want anyone going into the winter and towards Christmas worrying about how they’ll manage.”
