BARROW families who are struggling with debt will be offered a way out thanks to a new charity-driven partnership.
Spring Mount Christian Fellowship, in Abbey Road, Barrow have linked up with Christians Against Poverty (CAP) to offer home visits to people struggling with debt.
Free help will be available to anyone who needs counselling on how to escape from problem debt.
Donna Docker, manager at the Barrow centre, said: "Typically, debts can build up when a relationship breaks down, someone loses their job, or through bereavement – so often when people are least able to cope with a financial headache. That’s why we’re so excited to open a debt centre here in Barrow.
"We hope over the next few years to help countless local people and families, regardless of their age, gender, faith or background, to put their debt nightmares behind them and start a new life."
The Centre for Social Justice identified debt as one of the five pathways to poverty.
The remaining four were family breakdown, educational failure, worklessness and dependency and addiction.
Through the church-run scheme, families will be given one-on-one advice on how to manage a budget, and pull out of the spiral of debt.
Mrs Docker said: "As we meet people in their homes we can build a relationship with them and see if there is anything else we can help with.
"We want people to know that we are here as somebody they can ring."
The centre in the town was launched by Simon Wilce, director of client services for CAP. He said: "This is an exciting moment for this town.
"We’re sending a message that poverty in this area needs to watch out - and to people struggling, there is help on the way."
Mrs Docker said: "I would like the problem not to exist but it is a privilege to be able to go and help people who need the help."
Anyone who would like to talk to Mrs Docker and her colleagues should call 0800 328 0006 for advice and financial help.
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