Dinner Raises £19,525 for Debt Charity

I am often invited to fund raising events and try to attend as many as I can. I think it is important to support those who work tirelessly for causes they are passionate about. In many cases it is the unpaid efforts of volunteers that can make a real difference to the world around us. We only have to think of organisations such as the Air Ambulance and St. Margaret's Hospice to witness the amazing results that can be achieved, although I am often in two minds about some charitable activities. I believe that when we put our hands in our pockets for services that should be provided by the government there is little incentive for the powers that be to stump up the cash.

In the case of Christians Against Poverty, which is celebrating its 20^th anniversary, I had a personal interest in wanting to support them, having been on the receiving end of their remarkable services myself. I can say without exaggeration that they are life savers. There was of course the added incentive of spending the evening in the splendid surroundings of Dartington Hall.   

Whilst CAP’s ethos is one of Christian charity and compassion, what is not fully appreciated by the wider public is that it is not necessary to be a Christian to take advantage of what they offer. The support offered is unconditional. What is also not widely understood is that there is absolutely no fee or charge of any kind.

Since its inception CAP has helped not only those in debt, but also those suffering with addiction and struggling to cope with unemployment. There are now 529 active debt centres across the country and CAP continues to flourish, largely due to the ongoing gratitude of those, like myself, who have benefitted.

During the evening video evidence demonstrated how CAP has changed people’s lives, and we heard first-hand from local people who, often suicidal as a result of their situation, have been helped to survive and flourish. CAP involvement can have a profound impact on those they bring hope to; bringing those in crisis back from the brink. The link between suicide and debt is well documented, with around a third affected in this way, who may then turn to alcohol and drug dependence as a way of coping. Debt is also one of the main causes of marital or relationship breakdown, and domestic violence.

CAP is all about changing lives, showing people a way forward. They are thoroughly professional in their approach, effective and, above all, life changing. They are however not miracle workers; they take a realistic approach to what can be achieved. What they seek is successful, realistic and sustainable solutions to enable people to become debt free as quickly as possible. In my case it took eight painful years. 

It is no coincidence that Justin Welby, the Archbishop of Canterbury is CAP’s patron, or that Money Expert, Martin Lewis, apparently the most trusted person in Britain, endorses CAP, along with David Cameron and Prince Charles.

What is important is that everybody matters. Furthermore, the extent to which those at the dinner feel that CAP is worthwhile was demonstrated by the £19,525 raised during the evening; not a bad sum from just 80 diners.

My real message is this; rather than stand by to see a loved one suffer as a result of debt, put them in touch with CAP, who will offer practical support to help dig them out of the hole they have found themselves in, often through no fault of their own.