Harvest Church in Alton has helped people get free of debt by partnering with charity Christians Against Poverty (CAP) for eight years, but it warns that for many local families now it is costing everything they have just to live.

The government’s energy price guarantee – now reduced from two years to six months – has been welcomed by CAP, but its Alton debt centre team is deeply concerned many local people on low incomes will not be able to afford energy this winter.

Manager Steve Hannington said: “The help provided by the government to keep down all our energy bills is welcomed and a massive relief to many people who would’ve otherwise fallen into fuel poverty and debt.

“But the sad reality is we are still seeing many Alton families already in a financial crisis because they haven’t been able to afford rising costs throughout 2022.”

Calls to CAP’s helpline rose by more than a third in the first half of this year and emergency fuel top-up requests doubled.

Mr Hannington added: “Many people living on a low income in our area still can’t afford their energy bills and all the other rocketing living costs.

“This is resulting in debt, desperation and in some cases destitution, and is why it’s vital we let people know we are here to offer free debt help.

“I encourage anyone struggling financially to seek free debt help because we know that with incomes so low, and rapidly rising costs, a lot of households are finding it impossible to stay out of debt. We are determined to continue bringing hope to our community.”

For free debt help call Steve Hannington on 07501 914563 or email steve [email protected]