Holy Trinity Church Frome is urging people impacted financially throughout the pandemic to seek help now and not allow their debts to build up further.

The Christians Against Poverty (CAP) Debt Centre based at Holy Trinity Church is offering free help to local people facing money problems due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Frome CAP Debt Centre Manager, Phil Gray, said: "We know that many people wait as long as three years before finding help with their debts.

"At first it may seem like you can manage a drop in income but when bills start to get missed debt can rapidly build up until it becomes unmanageable.

"Debt can be caused by many different reasons – ill health, bereavement, relationship breakdown or low income – so it may not just be due to the pandemic although we know that many people in our area have had a reduction in hours or income and may be struggling.

"Getting help as early as possible can make a big difference.

"We want everyone in our area to know that our service is here, completely free of charge.

"We don't want anyone going into the winter and towards Christmas worrying about how they'll manage."

Since the pandemic hit, the CAP Debt Help service has adapted to follow social distancing guidelines to stay safe whilst still offering its award winning debt help, along with unique support, across the local area.

CAP client Jude said: "Being in debt was awful. I dreaded the postman. Every time he came it was just debt, debt, debt. I was completely alone and there was no one to talk to. I had to cut back a lot, skipping meals and going without different things. Then I got in touch with CAP. It was amazing. At last someone was here to listen to me and help me. I could finally breathe."

Phil added: "It doesn't matter whether people have reached the desperation Jude faced, or whether they've just begun to struggle. We are able to help and are determined to do whatever we can to alleviate the additional pressure that many people are facing as they negotiate loss of or low income. Asking for help is a positive step."

If you are struggling with debt and need help, get in contact with CAP today on 0800 328 0006 or visit capuk.org.

Christians Against Poverty (CAP) is a UK charity determined to reduce UK poverty delivering debt counselling, money management, job clubs, life skills groups and support for people breaking life controlling habits.