THE DANGERS of loan sharks are being raised during a series of visits by Worcester City Council, local agencies and West Mercia Police.
As part of a Bite Back week of action which runs from Monday (June 15) to Friday (June 19), campaign Sid the Shark joined officers on a series of community visits.
One of the first visits was to the parent and toddler group at Buttercup Children’s Centre and the team will visit Warndon, Tolladine and Rainbow Hill during the week.
An estimated 310,000 households across the country are currently in debt to a loan shark and Jacqui Kennedy, Head of the England Illegal Money Lending Team said illegal money lending caused ‘nothing but harm’ to local communities.
“These lenders may appear to be offering a community service, but borrowers are often forced to pay back far and above what they have borrowed and can afford,” she said.
“Many are subjected to threats, violence or other callous enforcement methods.
“We would urge anyone who has been the victim of a loan shark to report them in confidence on 0300 555 2222, as we can help,” she added.
Call 0300 555 2222, text loan shark and your message to 60003 or e-mail us at [email protected] in confidence.
