Amid growing concerns over mental health and social isolation, a report by Christians Against Poverty (CAP) titled No Time to Lose reveals a concerning link between financial debt and loneliness in the UK. Released to coincide with Loneliness Awareness Week, the report sheds light on the profound psychological toll debt takes on individuals.
The report’s insights are drawn from a comprehensive analysis of 2,225 new CAP client households in 2024, responses from 527 individuals in CAP’s debt survey, and national data from a CAP-commissioned Opinium poll of 2,000 UK adults.
Key findings show that 85% of CAP clients experience feelings of isolation, and over half are hesitant to leave their homes due to fear. Additionally, 58% suffer from poor mental health, living under a cloud of anxiety.
Graeme McMeekin, Chief Mission Officer of CAP, commented on the issue, stating, “The crippling fear and loneliness our clients talk about are often driven by the pressure of mounting debt, and the shame of feeling unable to manage on low incomes in the face of increasing debts.”
McMeekin emphasized that the stigma around debt prevents many from seeking help, leading to deeper isolation, “The unseen impact of this hidden crisis of loneliness and debt is that people feel unable to ask for help, with many isolating from family and friends.”
The Opinium survey further highlights the extent of loneliness in the UK: 21% of adults report feeling lonely, 20% live alone, and 8% lack any support network.
From CAP’s client data, distressing statistics emerge: nearly half have contemplated or attempted suicide before seeking help, and a significant number express fear of everyday interactions, such as answering the door or phone.
Financial strain is evident, with 59% borrowing money to buy food and 63% unable to afford basic necessities like a bed due to overwhelming debt.
In 2024, CAP assisted 8,716 individuals through its network of 250 debt centers and 123 job clubs, in collaboration with over 1,000 UK churches. Yet, the charity cautions that many more suffer in silence.
The average debt for a new CAP client in 2024 was £12,260.18, with those in London facing higher average debts of £14,023.
Delays in seeking help are common, with 63% citing embarrassment and 56% citing shame as reasons for postponement. Only a small fraction, 6%, sought assistance immediately upon recognizing debt issues.
An example of these challenges is Jolene’s story: a single mother whose financial difficulties began after her partner left and her work hours were cut. She shared, “Going from a life where you work, to literally putting your pennies together, it’s deeply scary.”
Jolene described her journey through depression and isolation, eventually finding hope through a CAP debt center linked to her local church, “That community has literally saved me, it’s given me and my family hope for the future.”
CAP encourages those struggling with financial hardship and loneliness to reach out for support during Loneliness Awareness Week.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
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