A LIFELINE is being offered to anyone struggling to pay soaring bills.

Debt help charity Christians Against Poverty (CAP) urges people worried about their finances to seek advice as soon as possible.

Knutsford-based Hope Central has teamed up with this charity to provide a free service.

Local CAP debt coach Barney Howard has found that some people feel embarrassment or shame and are reluctant to ask for help.

The north east Cheshire CAP debt centre manager, said: "We've all gone through a time of immense pressure due to the pandemic so we really want people to know that if this has affected you financially, you don't need to struggle alone.

"We see too any people try to deal with these issues for too long on their own.

"This can lead to all sorts of problems with their health, home life and wellbeing.

Knutsford Guardian:

Local CAP debt coach Barney Howard urges people to seek help as soon as possible

 

"People can be in debt through all sorts of reasons such as low income, job loss, bereavement, illness.

"We're here to help with understanding, compassion and completely free of charge."

Ofgem's announcement that average energy bills will rise by an average of £700 has prompted the charity to campaign for more support.

CAP is calling on the Government to take urgent action to extend emergency support to the worst hit households ahead of the pending rise in energy costs in April.

CAP director of external affairs Gareth McNab, said: “This is a really difficult situation that will see us all paying more for our energy, but for those on a low income or already struggling in debt this will be devastating.

“With the cost of living crisis, we are already seeing a rise in people coming to us for free debt help. Sadly, we expect this rise to continue unless urgent action is taken to ease the impact of the increase in energy costs and wider inflation."

The charity wants to see the £200 energy rebate paid in April, not October and is calling for the warm home discount scheme planned for £10 to be increased.

"Alongside this we are asking the Government for an exceptional increase in benefits rates in April, from 3.1 per cent to 7.25 per cent.

"This will allow payments to keep pace with the unusually steep rise in inflation and help low-income households meet the higher cost of living."

To seek help call CAP on 0800 328 0006 or visit capuk.org