New WhatsApp service launched by Stop Loan Sharks

New WhatsApp service launched by Stop Loan Sharks

This week, the England Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT) has launched a new WhatsApp service, giving people who have been targeted by loan sharks in England a new way to access support and report illegal lending.

There is already a 24/7 confidential helpline, an email address, a contact form on the website, and a Live Chat facility.

Like Live Chat, the WhatsApp messaging service will be available Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. Messages can be sent to 07700 102773 and they will be monitored and responded to by an officer during those times. The service is discreet and the Stop Loan Sharks logo will not be visible on screen.

Dave Benbow, head of the Illegal Money Lending Team, also known as Stop Loan Sharks, said: "We want to make it as easy as possible for people to get in touch with us to report a loan shark and to access our specialist advice and support.

"We realise it can be difficult for some people to make that first step and to admit that they have borrowed from a loan shark. We hope this service helps make taking that initial step a little easier. Many people will already be familiar with WhatsApp and feel comfortable using it - they can send pictures, stop a conversation at any time, but then go back to it at their convenience - it has a lot of advantages.

"However people choose to get in touch with us, every call or message is treated in complete confidence, and we are here to help, not to judge."

It's important to know the warning signs of an illegal lender which include:-

• Giving you no paperwork or agreement on a loan
• Refusing to give you information about the loan
• Keeping items until the debt is paid such as your bank card or passport
• Taking things from you if you don't pay on time
• Adding more interest or charges so the debt never goes down
• Using intimidation or violence if you don't pay

Anyone who has been affected by illegal money lending should call the Stop Loan Sharks 24/7 Helpline on 0300 555 2222 or access support online at https://www.stoploansharks.co.uk. Live Chat is available on the website from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday and messages can now be left via WhatsApp on 07700 102773.

Callers can still get in touch with the team via text on the existing number 07860 022116.