A national debt charity has warned that families in Renfrewshire and across Scotland are being hit hard by rising financial pressures, with many living in daily anxiety about money.
Christians Against Poverty Scotland (CAP Scotland) says new polling shows 30% of adults across Scotland suffer daily stress about their finances, while 13% already have debt they are struggling to repay.
The charity works alongside local churches and community organisations to support people facing poverty, offering debt advice, budgeting help and job clubs.
Nicky McLaughlin, CAP Scotland’s Partnership Development Manager, said the situation in Renfrewshire remains especially tough.
She said: “In Renfrewshire, nearly a quarter of all areas are among the most deprived in Scotland. Two areas in Ferguslie Park, Paisley, are even in the top ten most deprived. This means many families there are struggling with food, heating and getting local support.
“While online and phone-based assistance exists, it often falls short for those navigating complex financial challenges who desperately need direct, local help. Importantly, our polling showed that over a third of people across Scotland say they would find in-person debt advice helpful, showing a real need for support.”
She added that CAP Scotland already works with local churches to deliver face-to-face, community-based help, and believes there is “an incredible opportunity” for more churches and agencies to work together to expand support for people in crisis.
“The stories we hear from local families are heartbreaking,” she said. “Every day we see people who are trapped in poverty, often feeling alone and hopeless. Even though online tools can help, many people with personal and complex financial struggles really benefit from having a local, friendly face to sit down with.”
Local churches interested in partnering with CAP Scotland can contact Nicky McLaughlin at nickymclaughlin@capuk.org.
CAP Scotland commissioned polling of 2,000 adults across the UK earlier this year, with the findings weighted to reflect the national population.
Christians Against Poverty (CAP) is a UK charity working with over 1000 affiliated churches to deliver debt help, budgeting guidance, support to find work, life skills groups and more. Visit www.capuk.org to find out more.