Residents have been benefitting from extra support thanks to Mount Green’s local partnership with Christians Against Poverty (CAP).
The organisation provides free of charge debt advice and solutions such as money management coaching through a network of volunteers across the country. Richard Plumbridge, who works at the Mole Valley debt centre covering Leatherhead, Dorking, Cobham, and as far as Reigate, has been working with Mount Green’s residents in the area, after being contacted by one of our neighbourhood officers, Vimla Mathers.
Vimla said: “We’ve been noticing an increased number of our residents struggling with debt and money worries recently, so while we have our fantastic Welfare Benefit Service team working with them, I wanted to find some extra support for them, specifically with debt. We’re so glad we found CAP. It’s a real struggle right now to afford everything so having someone advising on budgeting and clearing debt is a real asset.
“The support Richard has been giving is fantastic. He’s extremely knowledgeable about all things debt related and works with the residents to sort out any issues they have. But better still he works with them to prevent them going back into debt and to manage their finances going forward.”
Richard has worked with several Mount Green residents, helping with debt management plans or insolvency, as well as supporting them to resolve problems that can cause debt to build up such as issues with benefits, universal credit and Personal Independence Payments (PIP). He also helps with referrals for support with energy bills and provides food bank vouchers. Positively, 94% of those that receive support from CAP stay out of debt in the future.
Richard Plumbridge, debt coach at CAP, said: “It’s been a pleasure to help residents of Mount Green to be debt-free and get back on track. Debt can be scary, especially with more people having little or no disposable income, so to support these individuals, understand their issues, and take some of that worry away is something we’re really passionate about.
“The success of this partnership also highlights the importance of Mount Green’s neighbourhood officers and having those close links with residents and communities, enabling them to identify people who need our help, or the support of other local organisations.”
Vimla added: “It’s crucial to know the residents we’re supporting well, and having smaller patches to look after means we can get to know residents in the homes and communities we look after, tailoring support and advice to those that need it.”
If you would like to find out more about the financial support available through Mount Green or CAP, please speak to your local Neighbourhood Officer or call 01372 379555.