A local debt advice service is celebrating a decade of helping local people and their families in Weymouth and Portland to sort out their finances.
Refresh, The Church of Weymouth and Portland in Action, launched the Debt Centre in partnership with UK debt and budgeting help charity Christians Against Poverty (CAP) in 2014.
During the last decade, CAP’s Weymouth and Portland Debt Centre have helped 150 people to go debt-free.
Claire Atkin, Weymouth and Portland Debt Centre Manager said: “We are celebrating every single one of the amazing people we have helped out of debt in Weymouth and Portland over the last 10 years.
“Debt can be easy to fall into and hard to get out of, without expert help. Especially with how high the cost of essentials is right now.
“We want to give huge praise to everyone in debt who has contacted us for help, worked with our team, and are now debt-free or making progress towards achieving that aim.
“I also want to thank all the team and volunteers from across the Weymouth and Portland Churches who over the last 10 years have spent countless hours supporting local people in need. Because of them, many lives in Weymouth and Portland have been changed for the better.”
The organisation has celebrated its 10th anniversary at St Mary's Church with many local organisations and charities in attendance.
The team are also keen to raise awareness of free debt advice as many local people continue to struggle with the high costs of essentials.
Claire Atkin added: “At Christians Against Poverty, our mission is to work with local churches to help people in our area break free from the chains of debt and poverty so they don’t have to use all their energy on just trying to survive but can have the opportunity to thrive.
“This is why it’s vital we continue our work, and you can play your part by helping us to raise awareness of free debt advice and by donating to Christians Against Poverty so we can help more people.
“Together, we can help change more lives and tackle poverty in Weymouth and Portland.”
How to seek help:
If you are struggling with your finances, you can find out more about what services CAP offers in your area by visiting capuk.org/help or phone the free helpline 0800 328 0006.
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