Residents across the Bath area are being encouraged to get help with debt now, so they can avoid heading into the festive season with “Christmas money misery”.
The Bath branch of Christians Against Poverty (CAP), which is based at Manvers Street Baptist Church, is offering free debt help to local people facing money problems.
Amanda Wetton, Bath CAP Debt Centre Manager, said: “We know that most people want to have a nice Christmas but it’s hard to do when bills are piling up.
“Getting help now can take the pressure off and stop the worry and misery.
“Christmas is supposed to be a lovely celebration, but we know that for many people in our area there’s not enough money to pay essential household bills. So there’s nothing left to make Christmas Day special.
“Our team is here to help with debt problems through our CAP Debt Help service and because we’re local we can also support clients practically too.
“Over the years we’ve had all sorts of ways to help people make Christmas that little bit better by offering hampers, linking clients up with local food banks, arranging emergency shops, emergency fuel, support, encouragement and a friendly voice at the end of a phone.
“We’re urging people to get in touch now for debt help because we don’t want anyone worrying about how they’ll manage this Christmas.
“This year has been challenging enough with the coronavirus pandemic, so we want to encourage people to get help now so that they can have a more positive end to 2020.”
CAP client Joanne said: “Like any single parent, I was doing my best, I had a job but I struggled to provide for us on the money I could earn. Looking back now I didn’t realise how much my finances impacted every aspect of my life.
“Even though I was working hard to earn money, I was constantly having to deal with the feeling of disappointing my son.
“I heard about CAP and now everything has changed. This Christmas we have peace. And I realise that’s what makes my son happy.”
If you are struggling with debt and need help, get in contact with CAP today on 0800 328 0006 or visit capuk.org.