Overview
- An Opinium survey of 2,000 adults for Christians Against Poverty found 23% received support from a church or Christian organisation in the past five years.
- CAP-commissioned polling indicates about 5.3 million people say Christmas adds extra financial pressure when they are already struggling.
- Church-based help most commonly involves food provision during the festive period, alongside energy top-ups and long‑term debt advice.
- Frontline debt advisers report bigger, more complex caseloads this year, citing average client debts of about £14,330 and rising priority arrears in rent, utilities and council tax.
- CAP warns that one in three children will face Christmas in poverty and is seeking donations to fund its £300,000 appeal.