December 1, 2014 11.17 am This story is over 122 months old

Christmas finance help in third phase of Lincoln campaign

Say no to high cost borrowing: People struggling financially in the run-up to Christmas are being urged not to turn to high interest lenders, but benefit from help available through a Lincoln campaign.

Partners from Lincoln Against Poverty’s ‘Say no to high cost borrowing’ campaign are joined in the city centre by Mayor of Lincoln, Councillor Brent Charlesworth. Photo: Stuart Wilde

People struggling financially in the run-up to Christmas are being urged not to turn to high interest lenders, but benefit from help available through a Lincoln campaign.

As previously reported, Lincoln Against Poverty – a partnership between City of Lincoln Council and several city organisations – is helping people and directing financial advice in its Say no to high cost borrowing campaign.

The campaign runs from October to January, with a different theme for each month. In the second phase, the partnership warned of loan sharks.

Lincoln Against Poverty is signposting anyone needing debt advice to Christians Against Poverty in the third phase of the campaign, taking place in the lead-up to the festive season.

Christians Against Poverty offers help to people struggling with debt, as well as running job clubs and giving assistance to those who need support with their budgeting.

The organisation has visited more than 500 people in the city since launching in 2006.

Simon Hoare, Manager for Christians Against Poverty (CAP) in Lincoln, said: “For many of us, it’s not just Christmas cards we can expect through the door but payment demands and credit card statements too.

“Talking about money doesn’t come easily but that doesn’t mean anyone should have to carry the burden of debt alone, especially at this time of year.

“CAP exists to support people to feel back in control of their finances and to succeed in becoming debt free. A free, confidential home visit is only one phone call away – 0800 328 0006.”

The city council also has a range of benefits advice it can give to those who are worried about their money.

Martin Walmsley, Head of the Shared Revenues and Benefits Service, said: “Many people do not realise that they are entitled to benefits.

“They miss out because they don’t know that a particular benefit exists. Also, people sometimes think because they are working they will not be entitled – but many customers are entitled to benefits as well as their wage.

“ Also, means-tested benefits increase their rates regularly, and people who didn’t qualify for benefits such as Council Tax Benefit in the past, may now qualify.”

For further information on the city council’s financial help options, contact them by e-mail [email protected] or by telephone on 01522 873382.