Charity urges Ribble Valley people in debt to get urgent help as lockdown restrictions are eased

The combination of rising unemployment, reduced hours, illness and larger bills covering the period when so many people have been at home has created a situation where many people now have unmanageable debt.

As people emerge from lockdown the uncertain economic effects may impact people hard. However, for people here in the Ribble Valley there is help. Free debt help and financial education is available through St James’ Church and the Clitheroe Christians Against Poverty debt centre. There has never been a more critical time for this free service, which is available to anyone in the BB7 postcode area of the Ribble Valley.

Manager, Graham Haldane, said: “Although we’ve continued helping people out of debt throughout the pandemic, we know that many people have been in survival mode and it’s only as we come out of lockdown that they will start to seek help. We want everyone to know that we’re here to give that help completely free of charge along with localised support, understanding and encouragement. And with the easing of restrictions, we now have the choice of meeting face-to-face or online.”

The Debt Centre currently has appointments available, so people are urged to get in contact as soon as possible to get help and get their lives back on track. There is a team of

volunteers, some of whom have been in debt themselves and are now out the other side, able to give a helping hand with practical solutions.

If you know things are out of control and you’re stressed, missing meals or sleep, please give CAP a call and let them help you get your life back on track. Book an appointment with CAP

by calling freephone 0800 328 0006 or visit capuk.org. St James’ Church is also offering their latest CAP Money Course to anyone interested in improving their personal budgeting skills. This will run online on Wednesdays 5th, 12th and 19th May at 7-30pm. To book, please e-mail [email protected].