THE FIGHT against loan sharks is hitting the streets of Evesham with a week of awareness-raising action.
The England Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT) is organising Bite Back Week in partnership with Rooftop Housing Group.
The aim is to raise awareness about the dangers of illegal money lenders and the legal alternatives available.
On Monday, April 29, IMLT mascot Sid the Shark will be in Evesham High Street handing out leaflets, from 10.30am to 2pm.
The following day, Sid will be in Port Street, also from 10.30am to 2pm.
On Thursday, May 2, there will be an information stall and walkabout near the Spar in Pershore Road, Hampton, from 11am to 12.30pm.
On the same day, between 1pm and 2.15pm, there will be an information stall near the Fairfield Pub in Battleton Road, Fairfield, and from 2pm to 3.30pm the team will be handing out leaflets near Hampton Village School.
Tony Quigley, head of the IMLT, also known as Stop Loan Sharks, said: “Often illegal lenders are well known in communities and are introduced to borrowers through friends or family members.
“If someone has struggled to access credit through mainstream channels they may feel they have no other option to borrow money.
“This is where the illegal lenders come in, preying on people when they are at their most vulnerable.
“It may start off as a small loan, but borrowers often end up trapped in a cycle of never-ending debt.
“If anyone thinks they may have been targeted by an illegal lender, there is help available.”
Boris Worrall, chief executive of Rooftop Housing Group, said:
“At Rooftop, we are here for our customers and understand that many face challenges.
“We will listen, help and work with you.”
Anyone who has been affected by illegal money lending should call the confidential Stop Loan Sharks 24/7 hotline on 0300 555 2222 or visit stoploansharks.co.uk to access support online.
Live Chat is available on the website from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.
