0-Love Southampton 2022-2023

7.II Debt
The Debt Network
Julia Maddock stepped down as the chair of the debt
committee in October with our thanks. The debt group
continued to meet quarterly. They discussed the impact of
debt on mental health and Dr. Thomas Richardson, Associate
Professor of Clinical Psychology & CBT at the School of
Psychology, University of Southampton presented his reaserch on
this topic.
The wider debt agencies also continued to work closely together to share
information and resources - Citizens Advice Southampton, City Council,
CAP, No Limits, and Frontline Debt Advice - with input from outside experts.
No significant issues or disruptions to this network were reported, although it
became clear that the cost of living crisis added extra pressure.
CAP Services
Through the appointment of Catherine Gleeson in January 2023, the Central CAP Debt
centre at Above Bar Church has reopened. The centre is currently appealing for volunteers
to befriend clients. It was reported by CAP that between February 2022 and January 2023
they helped 2,500 people to become debt free every year (nationally), and at the time of
writing this were working with 81 households in Southampton. In addition, families are also
being supported through CAP’s money budgeting course and job club.
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