Stop Loan Sharks Week 2026
Today marks the start of Stop Loan Sharks Week (11th-17th May). Organised by Stop Loan Sharks, the campaign raises awareness of illegal tenders and the tactics they use to play games with people’s lives and finances.
Latest figures show that around 1.08 million people in England are in debt to a loan shark.
Since the Covid pandemic, loan sharks have been using more online tactics to target people, particularly elderly and vulnerable people, from using social media to pretending to be someone trustworthy. They then use threats, pressure, and fear to try to stay in control and keep people stuck.
This year, Stop Loan Sharks’ focus for their campaign is around ‘Game Over for Loan Sharks’. Just like a computer game, loan sharks adapt and change their tactics to play games with people’s lives. But this isn’t a game and the consequences are real.
We’re supporting this campaign and help you recognise the warning signs of a potential loan shark. Red flags to look out for include:
- No paperwork
- No clear information on how much is owned or how long to pay back
- You’re asked to pay back more than borrowed
- Personal items, such as a bank card, passport or phone, are taken as security
- If you miss a payment, they make threats or try to intimidate or pressure you
You don’t have to keep playing by their rules. Get support, stay one step ahead, and help make it #GameOverForLoanSharks.
Our team is here to help you with any income or financial questions or concerns. Just get in touch by calling 0121 748 8100.
Stop Loan Sharks also have a 24-hour helpline at 0300 555 2222, as well as Live Chat available on their website from 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday.
