Loan sharks

Loan sharks are money lenders who operate outside the law.  They often use threats and violence to obtain extortionate payments from their victims.  More than 1,500 families are affected by loan sharks in the East of England every year. 

Getting help

If you have borrowed money from a loan shark, you can contact Trading Standards in confidence for help and advice.

• Call 0300 555 2222 (local call rate, 24-hour service)
• Email reportaloanshark@stoploansharks.gov.uk
• Text LOAN SHARK and the lender's details to 60003

The team works with people like the police, voluntary agencies and debt advice agencies to provide support to anyone who needs it.  The team also investigate and prosecute loan sharks.

Dealing with money issues and borrowing safely

Visit the Citizens Advice website for information about money issues, including how to deal with debt problems and how to get your finances into shape.

If you need to borrow money to cover unplanned bills for essential items, think about using a credit union.  The interest charges of a credit union usually work out less than many other sources of credit.

• Find out more about credit unions on the Citizens Advice website.