Say No To Loan Sharks Week 19th-25th May

We know times are tough and people may be struggling financially but our Money Matters Team are urging you to never consider borrowing from a loan shark.

As part of Stop Loan Sharks Week this week (19-25 May), we are asking customers to think twice about borrowing from a loan shark, if you are struggling.

The week is a campaign by the England Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT) to raise awareness about illegal money lenders, also known as loan sharks, and to provide support for those affected. The IMLT is the government body behind Stop Loan Sharks. The team was set up in 2004 to investigate and prosecute illegal money lenders while protecting those who have borrowed money from a loan shark.

Loan sharks often seem friendly at first and will give an easy cash loan, often with no forms or paperwork. They might operate in your local neighbourhood, in a pub, gym or even where you work, making it easy for you to get the money – but then really easy for them then to harass you. 

Loan sharks often target some of the most vulnerable people in our communities, leaving them in position where they are struggling to get through each day because of the amount they are paying to the loan shark.

If you are struggling with money, please contact our Money Matters Team. Our Money Matters Caseworker can provide free and confidential advice and guidance whatever your circumstances.

Money Matters are experts in benefits and money, so if you’re worried about increasing bills, getting into debt or you just need some handy tips and hints on discounts and grants that could help you through these difficult times, you can speak to us. We’re here to help you.

Here are just some of the ways the team can support you:

Benefits Advice

The team can check your benefit entitlements, maximise your income and help you to challenge benefit decision that are wrong.

Managing your bills

We’ll help you to work out where you can make savings on your bills and cut costs. We can point you in the right direction to get this sorted and help you get support.

Budgeting

Creating a personal budget is a great first step towards taking control and is a really smart investment of your time. We can give you advice about how to make a personal budget planner. When you’re finished, you’ll know how much money you have left at the end of each month – and if you can make savings.

Debt advice

We’re part of the Money Advice Network so can get you debt advice quickly – sometimes on the same day. We can also advise on loan sharks and illegal lending and sign post you to trustworthy alternatives such as credit unions.

Rent

Every 54North Homes customer has a dedicated Income Officer who you can speak to if you have any concerns about paying your rent. We do everything we can to make paying rent as easy as possible, finding a rent payment plan that fits best with your income and circumstances, and getting you set up with a direct debit so you never fall behind. Remember, you can also view rent statements and manage your payments all online with your My54North account which is available 24/7, 365 days a year.

Contact us

If you want to speak to one of our Income Officers or our Money Matters Caseworker, please call Tel: 0345 521 1993 or Email: hello@54northhomes.co.uk

Report a loan shark in complete confidence

If you know of a local Loan Shark, or need help, please contact the Illegal Money Lending Team (also known as Stop Loan Sharks) on 0300 555 2222, you can also email reportaloanshark@stoploansharks.gov.uk

Our debt advice service is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) FRN 775843