An Ardrossan-based charity have launched a new website to help with growing demand from those facing debt and potential homelessness.

Community Housing Advocacy Project (CHAP), located at The Michael Lynch Centre for Enterprise on Princes Street, has been operating constantly throughout the health crisis, providing independent help and advice to anyone in North Ayrshire facing debt problems.

Now that lockdown is receding and the ban of evictions has been lifted, Ray Chaney, Chair of CHAP, is preparing for even more demand for the charity’s services.

He said: “As the date for the Scottish Government to lift the ban on starting the evictions process drew closer we received a significant increase in the number of calls and emails regarding housing advice.

“Anyone who buried their head in the sand during the pandemic may now find themselves with more serious problems, and this can cause unbelievable stress to individuals and families.

“In preparation, we have updated our public-facing information and upgraded our telephony to ensure no call goes unanswered. Local marketing agency, CoshNiven, also very kindly offered to update and upgrade our website for free, to help us deliver the vital work we do.”

CHAP also provides education and early prevention services to help people avoid problems with housing and finances.

Its welfare rights service has been a crucial source of advice for the community, helping clients access the full range of benefits to which they are entitled.

Debbie Alexander, CEO, added: “The end of lockdown has left many people without a Plan B and no real idea how to manage their finances. Our dedicated team of debt advisers and advocates can step in to offer help before serious issues cause individuals to lose wellbeing and health or, in worst cases, their home.”

Anyone in North Ayrshire facing financial, housing or welfare issues, can contact CHAP on 030 0002 0002 or visit www.chap.org.uk for more information.