Scams Service News

Age UK Cheshire becomes first Age UK partner in the country accredited by Stop Loan Sharks

Age UK Cheshire has become the first Age UK partner organisation in England to be accredited by Stop Loan Sharks, marking a significant milestone in its work to protect older people from financial abuse, scams and illegal money lending.

The charity's Scams Awareness & Aftercare Service has been recognised as an accredited partner of Stop Loan Sharks, the England Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT), strengthening its ability to support older people across Cheshire who may be vulnerable to loan sharks and other forms of financial exploitation.

Loan sharks operate without authorisation from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). They often target individuals facing financial difficulties, presenting themselves as friendly and helpful before imposing excessive interest rates, unfair repayment demands and, in some cases, threatening or intimidating behaviour.

For Age UK Cheshire, the accreditation is a natural extension of its established work helping older people recognise scams, protect themselves from fraud and access practical support when things go wrong.

Emma Kennedy, Scams Awareness & Aftercare Project Manager at Age UK Cheshire, said:

"We are incredibly proud to be the first Age UK partner in the country to become an accredited Stop Loan Sharks partner.

"People don't always recognise what a loan shark looks like. It may not be a stranger. It could be a neighbour, friend or colleague who appears to be offering help when someone is struggling financially.

"Our Scams Awareness & Aftercare Service already helps people build confidence, recognise the warning signs of scams and make informed financial decisions. Through this partnership, we can raise awareness of illegal money lending and ensure even more people know where to turn for help."

The accreditation equips Age UK Cheshire's team with additional knowledge and resources to identify the warning signs of illegal money lending and connect people with specialist support.

Age UK Cheshire is encouraging anyone considering borrowing money to STOP - CHECK - DECIDE: stop before feeling pressured into a decision, check who they are dealing with, and take time to seek independent advice.

Importantly, people who have borrowed money from a loan shark are not committing a crime. The offence lies with the illegal lender, and support is available without judgement.

Stop Loan Sharks offers free and confidential advice and support. Individuals do not need to provide their name or make a formal report if they are not ready to do so.

Emma added:

"We want people to know that there is absolutely no shame in asking for help. Whether you're worried about your own situation or concerned about someone else, support is available and confidential.

"By working alongside Stop Loan Sharks, we are strengthening the support available to older people across Cheshire and helping to protect some of the most vulnerable people in our communities from financial harm."

Anyone concerned about illegal money lending can contact Stop Loan Sharks confidentially on 0300 555 2222, 24 hours a day, or visit www.stoploansharks.co.uk.

Age UK Cheshire's Scams Awareness & Aftercare Service can be contacted on 01625 612958 (option 5) or by email at scams@ageukcheshire.org.uk.