A free West Cumbrian debt advice service is celebrating a decade of helping hundreds of people sort out their finances.
St John’s Church in Hensingham, with five other Whitehaven churches, launched the centre in partnership with UK charity Christians Against Poverty in 2013.
Jonathan Berry, Whitehaven’s Debt Centre manager, who runs the centre with debt coach, Mel Turner, said: “Looking back at when we opened, we knew that there was a need in the area, but we were just blown away by how much we were needed.
“We have been through some tough economic times and these look set to continue with the current cost of living crisis one of the worst we have ever seen. Energy prices are rocketing, grocery bills increasing and we’re also seeing many other bills rising.
“So many people, even many who may have just managed before, are now struggling and we know our service is so vital.
“During the last decade, we have been privileged to see over 500 people helped with unmanageable debt, hope restored, family relationships saved and even lives saved from suicide.
“Our amazing team, as we live locally, is able to provide an unmatched free, face-to-face service, with practical help, such as food vouchers, if needed, or a link to a foodbank or FareShare, as well as emotional support and encouragement. This is all backed up by our expert team at CAP’s head office.
“For me, it’s an amazing position to be in. We see people often at their lowest point but then we get to see that burden taken away and so many other issues addressed along the way and that is a great joy.
“There are still many more people to help though, so while we’re thrilled to be able to celebrate each and every person who has made it to the other side of debt, we want everyone else who may still be struggling to know that we are here to help them completely free of charge too. We have had great take-up on our CAP money courses, too, which help people to budget and manage their household finances.”
The Whitehaven centre has been supported over the past decade with grants from many sources such as Cumbria County Council, Cumbria Community Foundation, the Cumberland Building Society, the Coalfields Regeneration Trust and the Francis C Scott Charitable Trust.
The centre also works closely with many local services, to provide support for the community, including Skills4You, Women Out West, Job Centre Plus, Home Group, FareShare and foodbanks.
- If you are struggling with debt and need help, get in contact with CAP today on 0800 328 0006 or visit capuk.org
