Debt Centre encourages community not to suffer in silence

Hope Central Knutsford has been granted £1500 through Knutsford Town Council’s Community Grant Scheme to support the work of its debt centre.

The Debt Centre is a vital local service, supporting residents facing unmanageable debt to take control of their finances, find a way forward and breathe a little easier.

Debt and mental health problems are closely related

Debt can have a devastating impact on people’s mental health. Christians Against Poverty (CAP) reports that 46% of its surveyed clients had considered ending their own life as a way out of debt, highlighting just how important services like this can be.

One local resident who used Hope Central’s services said, “A huge weight has been lifted and we have been given a fresh start for our family. Reach out, don’t suffer in silence. It’s never too late and there is always a solution.”

Hope Central provide face-to-face appointments, usually in the client’s home offering practical financial guidance and emotional support which is particularly important for people who may struggle to access other services. The Debt Centre operates in partnership with CAP, which provides the specialist systems, guidance and regulated debt advice required to deliver the service. The Town Council grant will help fund this essential partnership and enable the service to continue supporting Knutsford residents.

The Debt Centre empowers people to rebuild their lives

Barney Howard of Hope Central said:

“We are incredibly grateful to Knutsford Town Council for their financial support of our Debt Centre. This funding enables us to continue helping people become free from the weight of unmanageable debt.

Since launching the centre in partnership with CAP in 2021, we have supported 156 households. This funding means we can not only help people become debt free, but also empower them to rebuild their lives; whether that’s returning to work, gaining the skills to manage their finances confidently, or reconnecting to community.

Anyone can find themselves in debt, and no matter how overwhelming it feels, there is always a way forward. If you are struggling with debt or arrears, please contact our team on 0800 328 0006 to book an appointment.”

Financial hardship can affect anyone

Hope Central is a Christian charity committed to bringing hope and relieving poverty across Cheshire East. Recognising that poverty and financial hardship can affect anyone, the charity provides practical support to those in need. Through its food banks, Debt Centre and employment support, its services create long term solutions to protect and support vulnerable people to live an independent life.

For more information about Hope Central please visit https://hopecentral.org.uk/. To refer yourself or someone else to their debt service please call 0800 328 0006.

Knutford’s Town Community Grant Scheme supports community projects

The Town Council’s Community Grant Scheme provides grants of up to £1,500 to support community projects and activities within Knutsford. Funding priorities include providing services/opportunities for young people or older people, providing new or improved assets or services for the community and enhancing the profile or reputation of the Town.

The next deadline for Community Grant Scheme applications is 11 September 2026. For more information visit: https://www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/services/community-grants.

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