THE Skipton branch of Christians Against Poverty (CAP) based at Skipton Baptist Church, Rectory Lane, is offering free debt help to those facing money problems in the run-up to Christmas.

Ruth Howard-Birt, Skipton CAP debt centre manager, said they wanted to take the pressure off people facing a difficult festive period.

“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. “

She added: “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.”

Anyone struggling with debt, can contact CAP on 0800 328 0006 or online at: capuk.org.