Town's war on loan sharks

WARRINGTON is about to declare war on loan sharks – against a background of some 310,000 UK households borrowing from illegal lenders.
The borough council’s public protection team, in partnership with the England Illegal Money Leading Team and affordable housing provider Affinity Sutton Housing, will be warning local people to turn away from illegal money lenders.
The campaign will launch on Monday, August 13.
Anyone who has fallen into a loan shark’s trap will be encouraged to speak out.
Loan sharks operate illegally trapping borrowers into a spiral of debt by adding huge additional amounts. Many borrowers are forced into paying far more back than they borrowed or can afford.
Many lenders use violence, threats, intimidation and other extreme methods to enforce repayment.
During the campaign a series of initiatives will be used to raise awareness. A competition will be launched to design the best poster and banners, posters and other publicity material will be displayed throughout the community. Beer mats will be distributed in local pubs and bars with the 0300 555 2222 hotline number for reporting loan sharks.
The Team’s mascot “Sid” the Shark will be out and about encouraging local people to get involved with a series of fun activities, including rugby training with the Warrington Wolves on August 13, a roller disco on August 14, Zumba on August 15 and on August 17 a treasure hunt and salsa session.
Representatives from the England Illegal Money Lending Team will be on hand throughout the campaign to offer information and advice to residents, along with staff from Affinity Sutton. They plan to visit more than 480 homes to speak to people about the dangers.
Sessions will be held for any individuals, community groups or agencies wishing to find out more about spotting loan sharks, and where they can turn if they are aware of a loan shark operating. These sessions will be held at Fearnhead Community Centre throughout the week. Details from Catherine Wohlers on 07500809339.
Cllr David Keane (pictured), the council’s executive member for environment and public protection said: “Loan sharks prey on the vulnerable that have been reduced, often through no fault of their own, to accepting a short term solution which quickly turns into a long term nightmare. It is time that the community started helping each other and fighting this growing problem together. That is what this new campaign is about.”