Calls to a debt-councelling charity based in a Tulse Hill church have almost doubled since Christmas.

Christians Against Poverty (CAP), based in Holy Trinity & St Matthias Church in Trinity Rise, said the number of calls increased from 65 per week in December to 150 per week in March.

It warned it means more people in the area were falling into uncontrollable debt during the recession because of redundancies, the house price collapse and the looming spectre of deflation.

Irene Rothwell, centre manager, said it was not all doom and gloom because the centre was helping many people out of severe debt, and teaching them sound financial principles.

She said the service, which has existed in Tulse Hill since 2008, was open to Brixton, Herne Hill, West Norwood and Streatham residents and non-Christians too.

To get in contact, call 0800 328 0006 or visit capuk.org

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