Community worker joins Irvine and Three Towns Christian debt centre

An award-winning community worker has just been recruited by a North Ayrshire Christian group who help navigate people out of debt problems.

Carol Boyd has been appointed a Community Links Coordinator for the local Christians Against Poverty debt centre which covers The Irvine and Three Towns area.

The mother-of-two is positively relishing the challenge and said: "I am aware that the cost of living crisis continues to mean that far too many individuals and families in Ayrshire are crushed under the weight of personal debt leading to isolation, health problems and devastating consequences.

“When Alan McLaren, one of the local CAP team, informed me that almost half of their clients attempt or consider suicide as a way out of their personal debt worries, I knew I had to get involved because it’s clear debt is having a devastating impact on local people.

“CAP’s work helps save lives and I’m passionate about playing my part in this. I can’t wait to raise awareness of the free debt advice the team offers in the Irvine and Three Towns area so we can see more local people receive the help they need to break free from the chains of debt and poverty.

“We are determined to tackle poverty in our area and help people back on their feet so they have the opportunity to thrive, not just survive.”

Alan, a debt coach with the Christians Against Poverty, is delighted to have the new recruit on board and said: “Carol has worked in local community roles in Ardeer and is currently with the Saltcoats link up.

"She has a real concern for people suffering poverty in our community.

“Our most recent client report shows that 63 per cent of clients wait for a year to contact us for help. During this time they suffer loneliness and unbearable pressure.

“We believe that Carol will enable more people to become aware of the free face to face personal debt advice and befriending service that Christians Against Poverty offer to people living in the Irvine and Three Towns area.

“If this can save even one life then it will all have been worthwhile. We are delighted that Carol has joined our team.”

If you are struggling with personal debt right now then you can find out more about how CAP can help by visiting their website at wwwcapuk.org/help or calling the charity's freephone number 0800 328 0006.

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