In new surveys just completed by hundreds of CAP’s clients, the effects of debt on people’s personal lives were truly measured for the first time with some shocking results. 68% of people said that debt had affected their health and they had therefore visited their GP with 39% being prescribed medication. These are the unseen effects of debt as it causes general misery, depression and anxiety, which can in turn cause wider health issues. But there is good news! CAP helps to transform the lives of thousands of people each year by offering practical help and support. Read Jenny's story here.
I was destitute, with no way out. My debts amounted to £8000. A five year illness had stripped me of my life savings and meant I could no longer pay my credit card bills. This led to stress and depression.
I couldn’t cope with life most of the time, let alone conduct my finances. I could no longer juggle my money to pay the bills, eat and keep a roof over my head. I was truly at the end of my tether. It was my darkest hour, with suicidal thoughts running through my head.
I phoned my friend Judy, who told me about CAP and introduced me to Dani Jones (CAP Clevedon Centre Manager). Dani visited me at home and we planned a way forward. I can’t explain the relief I felt when I realised CAP weren’t looking to gain financially from me, but were genuinely there to help me.
The pressure was taken off my shoulders and I had enough money to live on each week. Feeling better, I then tried to come off my anti-depressants but ended up with horrendous withdrawal symptoms.
I called Judy, who came to see me. She asked me if I wanted to be saved and I said, ‘Yes I do, I’m desperate, I want Jesus in my life.’ From that moment on, things have just got better and better!
CAP managed to get a reduced settlement figure for my debts and, after re-mortgaging my house to release some money, I am now debt free!
Due to my previous illness, working full time wasn’t possible, so with some of the money from my re-mortgage, I bought a smaller house to renovate. That property is now fully renovated and back up for sale – I have a new career in property development! I also have time to concentrate on my singing voice, which will now be used for His glory.
I’m now off my anti-depressants and I have my life back – none of this would have been possible without Christians Against Poverty. Thank you, thank you. God bless you all!
