Vineyard Compassion Marks 15 Years of Transformative CAP Debt Services in Northern Ireland
Overcoming Financial Crisis and Restoring Hope, One Family at a Time
Vineyard Compassion proudly celebrates 15 years of offering vital debt services through Christians Against Poverty (CAP) across Northern Ireland. Since its inception in 2009, CAP has been a beacon of hope for families grappling with the suffocating burden of debt, providing not just financial assistance, but a pathway towards reclaiming their lives and dignity.
Reflecting on the impact of CAP's services, a local woman shared, "Before receiving support I always felt like I was on my own. Like nothing or nobody could help. I now feel like a new person and have self-worth, something that I don’t think I ever had before."
Poverty's grip extends far beyond mere numbers; it erodes joy, hope, and opportunities. Recognising this, Vineyard Compassion, in partnership with CAP, has been steadfastly committed to alleviating the strain of debt since opening its doors in Coleraine in February 2010.
Ricky Wright, CEO of Vineyard Compassion, reflects on the journey: "Our debt centre began with a 9-month waiting list of clients seeking help. Over the years, our dedicated team, alongside CAP, has worked tirelessly to offer support and guidance to those in need."
The statistics paint a stark picture of the challenges faced by many in Northern Ireland. A recent YouGov Poll commissioned by CAP revealed troubling figures:
35% of adults surveyed in NI reported financial worries as an unbearable burden amidst the cost-of-living crisis.
25% expressed their inability to cope with unexpected bills.
40% admitted to regularly skipping meals due to financial constraints.
Behind each statistic lies a personal story of struggle. One local person shares how CAP served to help them take back control, “I wasn't dreading what would come through the letterbox daily and the dreaded phone calls stopped as CAP had taken control of it all and I felt I could now settle myself.” CAP debt advice serves as a lifeline for those overwhelmed by debt.
As Ricky Wright notes, "The impact over the last 14 years speaks for itself." Through the CAP Debt Centre at Vineyard Compassion, 762 local families have received invaluable assistance, with 125 families achieving debt-free status.
It couldn’t be easier to access CAP support. The first step is to make that all important call and we know that that can seem like a hard step to take, as one local client told us,
“I remember thinking to myself I will take the number to be polite, but I won’t call them because I would be too embarrassed, but after a phone call from the creditor saying I would be taken to court as I had missed several payments, I lifted the phone and called CAP.”
As Padro Naan, the current Debt Centre Manager, affirms, "Teamwork makes the dream work." Together, with CAP and Vineyard Compassion, individuals and families across the north coast are empowered to break free from the shackles of debt and embrace a brighter future.
To make that all important first step give CAP a call on the dedicated helpline number 0800 328 0006 or call in to the Hope Centre where our CAP manager can help you get started.