DEBT charity workers in South Lakeland are predicting Monday will be their busiest day yet for locals calling for help.

While the economy in some areas has seen an upturn, Christians Against Poverty in Kendal says it had a 'record-breaking' start to 2016 and is still hearing from thousands of people in desperate circumstances.

“Most of our clients have been struggling with problem debt for more than three years by the time they get in touch with us,” said Amanda Conner, manager of the charity’s centre in the town.

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“So, what we’re seeing now reflects a snapshot of how things were several years ago. The main thing is, people are finding a way forward with a situation that can seem overwhelming.”

It has been a busy start to the year for CAP with 24 per cent more calls for help in January 2016 compared with January 2015. So far this year, more than 3,000 people have telephoned for help.

CAP Kendal is a project run and supported by Parr Street Evangelical Church as part of its care of the local community.

Every person who calls from the local area receives a visit to their home from Amanda and a member of her team.

All the person’s paperwork, overdue bills and letters about arrears are then sent to CAP’s head office where they answer each one and begin negotiations with creditors.

One client helped by the Kendal CAP Centre said: “I felt very stressed and scared that they would take me to court but now, thanks to CAP, I am not in fear and it's not long before I am out of debt.”

Amanda said: “Many people really struggle through these first months of the year and commonly people feel they should be able to sort out debt problems on their own, which is lonely and frightening.

“If you’re unable to sleep at night, worrying about money for food or receiving too many calls from people wanting money, we are here for you. Give us a call.”

Find out more at capuk.org or call 0800-328-0006