Awarded at the beginning of 2025, this grant supports the delivery of debt advice and financial coaching services to residents of Chippenham and the surrounding area.
Led by the Chippenham CAP Centre, the project provides comprehensive support for individuals struggling with debt and poverty. The programme focuses on providing professional debt advice, money coaching and maintaining essential office operations through their established drop-in centre, which currently serves 40-50 people weekly.
The initiative takes a holistic approach to debt relief, recognising the strong connection between financial difficulties and mental health challenges. By offering both practical debt solutions and essential life skills training in money management, the programme aims to create sustainable pathways out of poverty.
The Chippenham CAP Centre works collaboratively with key local partners including the Department for Work and Pensions, Wiltshire Council, Doorway, local food banks, and health professionals who provide ongoing referrals. The centre also receives referrals through CAP Head Office and benefits from word-of-mouth recommendations from past service users.
The programme aims to improve physical and mental health, boost self-confidence and self-esteem, enhance employability, and ultimately keep people permanently debt-free while reducing health inequalities across the community.
