Debt crisis hits Salisbury

9:20am Friday 7th March 2008

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THE horrifying emotional cost of debt in the Salisbury area has been revealed in a survey by a national charity.

Christians Against Poverty said 43 per cent of clients seeking its help locally in dealing with debt problems admitted to having suicidal thoughts.

And 71 per cent said they were living in fear, facing the threats of a visit from bailiffs, eviction or having their home repossessed.

Centre manager Andy Eyre said: "My experience is that there's a lot of depression. People are not even going out of their homes, but living behind closed curtains.

"There's a real need. The people who call us are usually those who have really tried everything and feel there is no more hope. We are their last resort."

Mr Eyre said people often leave it until the last minute to seek help. One client he dealt with last week had only got in touch three weeks before he was due to be evicted from his home, which left little time to work out a rescue plan.

Personal debt in the UK is currently increasing by £32million a day.

The CAP's centre in Salisbury has been open for three years, and is helping many clients to become debt-free within five years, using sustainable and practical solutions and teaching money management skills.

Mr Eyre said: "The good news is that we're here to help anyone who feels trapped by debt in Salisbury. We cannot explain the relief we see on clients' faces when they realise that their problems are not too big to overcome, and we aim to offer hope to those in desperation.

"We're aware that so many more in the local community still live under the shadow of debt and I would urge anyone in need to contact me on 01722 414848.

"Our specialist advice is completely free and we work with anyone, whether they're Christian or not, so please call."