Struggling with Debt?
Christians Against Poverty is a national debt counselling charity with 3 centres connected to parishes in our diocese.
How does CAP work?
1. Home visit
If you live in a postcode covered by a CAP Centre phone the freephone number. After you call CAP, a Debt Coach and Support Worker from the local CAP Centre will visit you in your own home.
To book an initial appointment please call FREE on 0800 328 0006
2. An effective budget
A realistic budget is then worked out at CAP HQ by prioritising your essential bills, negotiating affordable payments with each creditor and stopping unfair interest and charges where possible. The local Debt Coach will then visit you again to explain the budget and the payments you will need to make.
3. CAP Account
A CAP Account is then set up for you. This acts like a simple bank account. You will need to make one weekly or monthly payment into your account to cover all of your bills and debts. CAP will then distribute this on your behalf. You can also make savings in your CAP Account.
4. Insolvency/bankruptcy
If you are in severe debt then we can walk you through insolvency, like petitioning for bankruptcy. We can help you to fill out the forms and even attend court with you.
5. Debt free and beyond
You will use your CAP Account to pay your bills and debt repayments. You will be supported by a team at CAP HQ until you are debt free.
Is CAP just for Christians?
No, CAP will help anyone regardless of their religious beliefs. CAP aims to ensure that no one receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of race, nationality, religion, age, gender, marital status, sexual orientation or disability.
Further questions? Visit the CAP website here.
To book an initial appointment please call FREE on 0800 328 0006
CAP Centres in Down & Dromore
Lurgan, run in partnership with Magheralin and Dollingstown and Shankill parishes. Centre Manager is Ainslie McMullan.
Belfast Central, run in partnership with Willowfield parish and the joint initiative of the Lagan Area Deanery. Centre Manager is Chris Cupples.
Bangor, run in partnership with Christ Church, Primacy. Centre Manager is Julie Rutledge.
Also within our diocesan boundaries is Belfast East run in partnership with Church of God Glenmachan. Centre Manager is Jim Fleming and there are 2 debt coaches:
Stephanie McCoy and Janet Fleming.