A free debt advice service which has helped almost 100 South Hams households become debt-free is celebrating 15 years of supporting people struggling with their finances.

The South Hams Debt Centre was launched in October 2011 when five churches in Kingsbridge, Totnes and Dartmouth joined forces with Christians Against Poverty (CAP).

Since then, the centre has supported nearly 100 households to become debt-free, with its volunteers also helping people improve their financial circumstances and regain stability.

Gordon Roberts, the current manager of the South Hams Debt Centre, said the milestone was an opportunity to recognise the people who had sought help as well as those who had volunteered their time.

“We are celebrating every single one of the amazing people we have helped out of debt in the South Hams over the last 15 years,” he said.

“Debt can be easy to fall into and hard to get out of without expert help. Especially with the high cost of essentials right now.”

Mr Roberts said changes in people's circumstances combined with living on a low income could quickly result in mounting debts.

He said the centre had helped people who had borrowed money to pay for essentials, skipped meals and gone without basic needs.

“We want to give huge praise to everyone in debt who has contacted us for help, worked with our team, and is now debt-free or making progress towards achieving that aim,” he said.

He also paid tribute to volunteers who had supported people across the South Hams over the past 15 years.

“I also want to thank all the team and volunteers across our area, who over the last 15 years have spent countless hours supporting local people in need,” he said.

“Because of them, many lives in the South Hams have been changed for the better.”

The centre is continuing to provide support as households face pressure from the cost of essential goods and services.

Mr Roberts said the charity's work was “far from over” and urged people struggling with their finances to seek advice rather than allowing debts to build.

“At Christians Against Poverty, our mission is to work with local churches to help people in our area break free from the chains of debt and poverty, so they don’t have to use all their energy just trying to survive, but can have the opportunity to thrive,” he said.

The organisation also offers budgeting skills, or “money coaching”, courses in the South Hams.

The courses run over four sessions and provide advice on managing day-to-day finances.

People seeking help with debt or budgeting can find information about services available through CAP.

Mr Roberts said the centre was also keen to hear from people who wanted to support its work.

“We must continue our work,” he said. “You can play your part by helping us to raise awareness of free debt advice and by donating to Christians Against Poverty, so we can help more people.”

The South Hams Debt Centre is part of Christians Against Poverty, which works with churches across the UK to provide debt advice and other financial support.

People struggling with their finances can find out more about CAP's services, including local money coaching courses, through its website.

Free information about debt and money advice is also available through moneyhelper.org.uk.