Finding hope amidst debt and isolation in the battle against a crisis unseen

At CAP (Christians Against Poverty), we have a vision to see transformed lives, thriving churches, and an end to United Kingdom's poverty. As we look at the findings from our latest report, "No Time to Lose," we can celebrate the incredible difference our church-based movement makes. Yet, I am starkly reminded that we face an ever-growing challenge, particularly concerning the insidious grip of loneliness that poverty tightens around so many.

The statistics in the "No Time to Lose" client report paint a troubling picture. The report reveals a crisis of isolation and fear, with a staggering 85% of the people we help feeling isolated by their debt, and more than half (52%) admitting they were afraid to even leave their homes.

Imagine the daily torment: 78% fear answering the phone, 82% are worried about opening the post, and 62% are frightened by a simple knock at the door. This isn't just about finances; it's about lives lived in the shadows, disconnected and afraid.

This comes at a time when the number of deficit budgets we see indicates high levels of financial vulnerability. Many of the people CAP helps are unable to afford essential living costs, with over half struggling to pay for food.

People are being crushed under an increasing array of what seem impossible challenges.

Low income and struggles with mental health remain the two biggest reasons our clients find themselves in unmanageable debt, and the ongoing rise in the cost of living continues to pile on unbearable pressure. Put simply, people are being crushed under an increasing array of what seem impossible challenges. But there is help at hand…

Through the dedicated local church partners we work with across the UK, CAP has been given a unique opportunity to reach into local communities to offer in-depth support and holistic care to those facing times of need.

Last year, we responded to over 15,000 calls to our helpline and provided specialist debt help for over 8,000 individuals on their route out of debt. Over 2,000 people reached that incredible milestone of becoming debt free, and thousands more received face-to-face help. 

Poverty takes more than possessions; it attempts to steal life itself.

But the need is profound. Before their local church stepped in with CAP’s help, a heartbreaking 49% of clients had considered suicide as a way out. This figure is a stark reminder that poverty takes more than possessions; it attempts to steal life itself.

Where, then, can we find hope in the face of so much struggle? My faith always rises when I hear the individual stories. One such story is Jolene’s, which is generously shared in our report. She faced the raw isolation of financial collapse, fearing homelessness for her children. "Going from a life where you work, to literally putting your pennies together, it’s deeply scary," she recalls.

But through her local church and CAP, she found not only a path out of debt but also a caring community that broke the cycle of isolation. "That community has literally saved me," Jolene says. Her journey reminds me why our church-based movement must continue to work tirelessly.

Jolene's experience highlights the critical role of connection. The fear and isolation our report details are often why people don't seek help sooner.

It is never too late to take action.

There’s no doubt that many face enormous challenges, but it is never too late to take action. "No Time to Lose" is an urgent call with an important message for all of us as followers in Christ can take heed of.

We can all choose to do something that will have an impact. If you live in the UK and are not already part of our church-based movement in the UK, I invite you to join us in pursuing freedom from debt, restoration of lives, and hope in every situation. Together, we can ensure no one has to face these burdens alone.

To read "No Time to Lose" or find out more about CAP’s UK work, please visit www.capuk.org.

Stewart McCulloch joined Christians Against Poverty as Chief Executive Officer in January 2024. Stewart started as an accountant in the City of London, becoming the CEO of an international insurance business. But a desire to bring his work and faith closer together led him to take on the role of Global Insurance Director at World Vision, then CEO of Christian financial charity, Stewardship, before joining CAP. At CAP, Stewart McCulloch is passionate about helping people find freedom from debt. He champions CAP's work in bringing practical support and real hope to individuals and families across the UK, truly transforming lives.