WORCESTER is hosting an event for confidential advice from experts to learn about the fight against Loan Sharks next week.
Organised by Worcester City Council, Bite Back will be held at the Guildhall in High Street on Thursday, May, 30 between 11am and 2pm.
Worcester City Council’s communities committee chair, Jabba Riaz said: “It’s important that you don’t remain silent if you are being impacted by Loan Sharks.
“The illegal lender is the criminal and experts will be at this event to give you confidential advice if you have become a victim of a Loan Shark.
“It’s also important that people are aware of the dangers, so you don’t fall victim to illegal lenders in the future.”
The event is being held in partnership with Platform Housing Group and the England Illegal Money Lending Team, who investigate Loan Sharks.
It aims to raise awareness against the dangers of loan sharks and promote safer alternatives such as credit unions.
Tony Quigley, head of the England illegal money lending team, said: “This Bite Back event is a great way for people to find out more about the dangers of illegal lenders and we are grateful to our partners for helping raise awareness.
“We know it can be difficult for people to admit they have borrowed from an illegal lender – some people may not even be aware that their lender is operating illegally.
“The warning signs include being given no paperwork or information about the loan, being asked to hand over items like bank cards or a passport as security, and being asked to make huge repayments.
“Usually, the amount borrowed never seems to decrease and you start to be threatened or intimidated if you can’t pay.
“The important thing to remember is you have done nothing wrong, the illegal lender is the criminal.”
Visit stoploansharks.co.uk for more information.
