Charity That Helps People In Debt Is Expecting A Rush Of Calls

Published on: 20 Jan, 2015
Updated on: 26 Jan, 2015

Christians Against Poverty (CAP), a charity that helps people with debt problems and with a centre in Guildford, is bracing itself for more calls for help than ever before.

It reports that the post-Christmas rush to get finances sorted has begun in earnest.

CAP’s Guildford centre manager Jane Seals.

Rather than the mythical peak known as ‘Blue Monday’ on January 19, the charity actually receives the most calls for debt help on the second Monday in February which this year lands on February 9.

Guildford centre manager Jane Seals, who is based at Westborough URC Church, said.“Every week, the busiest day for debt help calls is a Monday, when people have had time over the weekend to resolve to seek help.

“We see a rise in calls during January and February because most people can’t face tackling their finances before Christmas. When these two elements come together, we see our busiest time. As our reach extends to more areas, with more debt coaches, we are set to see more people booked in than ever before.”

Already in the first working week of 2015, CAP received 479 calls for debt help. The Guildford centre is currently booked up until the middle of February.

Recent research from CAP has shown that people often struggle for years with personal debt following income changes caused by events such as losing a job or a relationship breakdown.

Jane added: “Four in 10 people believe that no one can help them with their debts, according to some research we’ve done. It can feel like you’ve hit a brick wall but we see ‘impossible’ situations where people get their debts cleared. There are people to help and it can get sorted, however complicated or dire it seems.”

Anyone calling CAP for help rings 0800 328 0006, and are booked in for a home visit from Jane, who spends time learning what has happened and shows a way forward out of debt.

Then all the person’s outstanding bills and letters from creditors are sent to CAP’s head office in Bradford. The charity negotiates with each creditor on behalf of the client and draws up a budget to begin to repay what is owed.

Jane said: “Anyone having sleepless nights, unable to afford the basics or worried about meeting their rent or mortgage should call us, or one of the other good free debt agencies, and see how we can help.”

Call CAP on 0800 328 0006 or visit capuk.org