Campaigners are warning that “shockingly low incomes” are leaving people in Forth Valley hungry, without the basics and fearing debt collectors.
Almost a dozen Forth Valley churches are joining forces to tackle poverty in the region amid figures showing almost a fifth of Scotland’s people don’t have enough to cover basic essentials.
As part of Challenge Poverty Week (October 7-13) a group of churches, including Stirling Baptist Church, is working with Christians Against Poverty to offer free, face to face advice.
Ten Forth Valley churches have partnered with CAP with the aim of helping local people out of debt and tackling poverty.
CAP’s latest YouGov polling revealed 802,000 (18 per cent) of adults who live in Scotland say they currently have a deficit budget, which means their income doesn’t cover the cost of their basic essentials.
The charity’s latest report also reveals almost half (47 per cent) of those who seek help from CAP have a deficit budget, and would need, on average, an additional £273 per month in income to make their budget balance.
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Jay Brownlee, CAP’s Forth Valley Community Link Coordinator, said: “Poverty in our communities is getting worse and one of the biggest factors is that many people are living on shockingly low incomes that don’t stretch far enough to cover their basic essentials.
“This problem is often hidden behind closed doors.
“We are visiting individuals and families in our community who have empty fridges and are going hungry, living without the basics, and keeping their curtains closed out of fear of debt collectors.
“Local churches and charities are standing in the gap offering vital support to those facing these desperate situations.
“It’s vital we raise awareness of the free, face to face support available to everyone who is struggling ahead of this winter so they know there is
help available and there’s always hope.
“On Challenge Poverty Week Scotland, we’re calling for more targeted support for people struggling to afford their basic needs and more awareness of the free help available.
“At Stirling Baptist Church, we are working in partnership with the charity Christians Against Poverty to offer free, face to face debt advice in Forth Valley.
“We also offer a range of other practical and holistic support alongside our debt help service.
“Poverty can be tackled. CAP has helped thousands of people to go debt free, improve their financial situations, and increase their
money management skills and confidence.”
Find out more about what free local help is on offer at Christians Against Poverty at capuk.org/help and visit moneyhelper.org.uk for a wide range of support.