Nearly two-thirds of those in poverty feel lonely or fearful according to a Christian anti-poverty charity.

Christians Against Poverty (CAP) Scotland say that their recent survey discovered that 60% of clients often or always feel alone, 68% are scared to answer the phone, 55% too afraid to answer the door and 40% were afraid to leave their home. The proportion who thought no-one could help them had increased from 34% to 43%.

Charis Scott, CAP Scotland Promotion and Engagement Manager said: “Right now we know many people are feeling isolated, scared and forgotten as they struggle alone with their debts, not aware of the free help available. Too many remain trapped in debt as they are too embarrassed or ashamed to tell anyone, even those closest to them.”

The charity has a network of communitybased debt centres, based in local churches throughout Scotland, which provide free, professional person-centred debt advice.

Encouraging churches to make a difference, Charis said: “The latest stats released by the Scottish Government show that people living in the most deprived areas of Scotland have a life expectancy that is 25 years shorter than those in the least deprived areas. Poverty is costing lives.

“In the face of such overwhelming injustice it can be hard to know where to start but the important thing is to take that first step. Rise up in prayer, lift up the people around you and petition God for lasting change. Get to know people in your community, open your doors, show them the practical love of Jesus, host community meals, create a safe space for people to come and be heard. Partner with organisations like CAP, that can resource your church with specialist knowledge and tools.”

Find out more at capuk.org/yourchurch