Podcast | Debt Help: How to Provide Debt Support with Christians Against Poverty

In the twelfth episode of our Beyond Funding podcast series, we’re joined by Alison Berry, Region Leader for the South East for Christians Against Poverty (CAP). 

Alison’s understanding of debt and poverty started over 13 years ago, when she was involved in setting up a CAP Debt Centre in partnership with her local church. Today, Alison oversees CAP’s services, centres, and volunteers across the South East.

CAP is a church-based movement with over 33,000 people working across the charity’s debt centres, money coaching services, job clubs, and life skills support. CAP’s purpose is to respond to the stark reality of debt and poverty.

In this episode, we discuss the current state of poverty and debt in the UK, what services are in place to support people who are struggling with debt, and what CAP is doing to address this growing issue.

Alison gives us an insight into some of the root causes of debt but emphasises that the main factor is people living with low incomes, struggling to afford the essentials. Nine million people are currently living with problem debt, and there are around three million people who are in desperate need of advice and support. Alison mentions how crucial face to face support can be for those that are struggling, and although reaching out for help is hard, it is the hardest step they’ll have to take.

To find out how this charity is helping communities across the UK, watch/listen to ‘Debt Help: How to Provide Debt Support with Christians Against Poverty’ on Youtube and Spotify.