CAP’s West NI Debt Centre Manager, Jonathan Hayward, said: “Winter often brings financial anxieties, and with household bills continuing to squeeze incomes, unfortunately many people will face a harsh financial reality.
“We know that 28 per cent of United Kingdom adults have daily anxiety about their finances, and the post-Christmas period can really add to the financial pressure.
“But we want to offer the people in our community some hope – you do not have to face this alone.
“Whether you need a full debt solution or just some help to talk through and plan a budget that actually works, free help is available.
“If you’re struggling with debt, you can call CAP’s free helpline, at 0800 328 0006, to speak to one of our friendly advisors at the CAP Support Hub.
“They’ll connect you with your nearest debt centre, and arrange for a debt coach to meet you in person.”
He continued: “Whether you’re facing a mountain of unopened letters or just don’t know where to start, we can help you gather everything needed to put a plan in place.”
“Please, don’t let fear stop you from making that call – you do not have to carry this worry alone.
“This January, as we launch our ‘Break the Debt Blues’ campaign, we’re encouraging people in Fermanagh to reach out if they need help.”
To learn more about CAP’s free services and resources, see capuk.org.
In addition, to help households as the new year continues, CAP has also released its top five practical tips, as follows.
1. Do a ‘benefits check-up’: Millions of pounds in benefits and grants go unclaimed every year. Even if you work, you may be eligible. Use a free online benefits calculator (available at capuk.org/calculator) to check if you are missing out on income you don’t have to pay back.
2. Audit your subscriptions: It is easy to sign up for TV, music, and app subscriptions and forget them. Check your bank statement for direct debits you no longer use. Cancelling just two unused subscriptions could save you more than £200 a year.
3. Check your contract status: Are you out of contract on your broadband or mobile? If your contract has ended, you are likely overpaying. Switch providers or haggle with your current one to lock in a lower rate for 2026.
4. Try a ‘no-spend’ challenge: Kickstart your savings by designating ‘no-spend days’ in the rest of January and February where you don’t buy anything other than absolute essentials. It helps reset some of the spending habits formed during the recent Christmas rush.
5. Seek help early: If you find yourself in unmanageable debt, don’t wait – the earlier you seek free debt advice, the more options you have. Charities such as CAP provide free, FCA-accredited debt help.
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