A RADCLIFFE -based counselling service is reaching out to those facing spiralling debts and overstretched budgets in the run-up to Christmas.

During the past two and a half years, Christians Against Poverty (CAP) has helped clients living all over the borough to get out of debt.

CAP is a widely recognised national charity, operating from more than 200 centres nationwide, giving a free service for people with soaring debts.

It is available for everyone, regardless of age, gender, background or belief, and specialises in a face-to-face service, with home visits by appointment.

The charity, which has its headquarters in Bradford, operates its counselling service from the Bridge Methodist Church in Radcliffe.

Judith Hainsworth, links co-ordinator with CAP Radcliffe, said: "A prospective client is anyone who is in real financial difficulties and needs a free debt counselling service to hold their hand through the process of getting out of debt.

"Professional accountants will negotiate on their behalf to produce a budget that they can live on and be able to get out of debt as soon as possible. One of CAP’s first considerations is to ensure the rent is paid and to keep a roof over clients' heads.

"At our centre in Radcliffe we have a team of volunteer befrienders that play a key role in supporting clients practically. CAP has access to a food bank and specialist funds for clothes or other essentials for clients struggling with real poverty.

"There is a drop in/coffee afternoon every Wednesday at the Bridge Methodist Church for clients, either to meet up with the debt coach or get involved with doing craft, or just chatting with some new friends."

For more information: ring CAP’s freephone number on 0800 328 0006 - which will treat all calls confidentially – or visit www.capdebthelp.org

In addition, its Radcliffe centre runs free money courses for anyone wishing to get to grip with their finances, irrespective of the size of their income, and to get some back-to-basics money management skills. For further details: call 01204 880687.