A free and confidential service run by church
members providing practical help and advice for East Kent
residents struggling with personal debt.
What is the vision of the ministry?
Motivated by Christ's command and example,
we seek to show his compassion for the poor and oppressed, to help them find
release from the heavy yoke of debt and the resulting anxiety and helplessness,
before it leads to stress, illness, marital breakdown, depression, and
despair. At an appropriate time we seek to share the gospel with them and
invite them to church, believing that they need not just debt advice, but also
a relationship with the Saviour Jesus Christ.
What does it look like on a week to week basis?
Most of the day to day work of CDAC is managed by the church’s case
worker, who is the first point of contact for new clients. Clients are booked
in for appointments on a Wednesday evening at the church offices, where they
meet with a team of two CDAC volunteers. We listen sympathetically and explain
what help we can provide. We pass on information to the case worker, who then
prepares a financial statement for the clients and negotiates affordable
repayments with their creditors. We aim to build up a good relationship with
the clients over time, working with the case worker to provide follow up
appointments and care.
What would be involved in serving in this area?
We would greatly appreciate new volunteers
to be part of the duos that meet clients for their appointments. The time
commitment would be about one Wednesday evening a month, to see either new
clients or to continue a relationship with existing ones. Before and after the
appointment, there would be briefings with the case worker. All necessary
training is provided. Volunteers would always be paired with someone more
experienced unless they were confident to lead an appointment.
What sort of person are you looking for?
Members of The City Church Canterbury who
are over 18 years of age and want to reach out into the community. They must be
good listeners, reliable, committed and compassionate. No financial knowledge or mathematical ability is necessary!
What is the process if they want to get involved?
Check out the website and e-mail info@thecitychurch.org.uk.
We will then arrange for you to speak to Alexi Brook.
