Platform becomes official access point for Stop Loan Sharks support

We have become an official access point for Stop Loan Sharks, helping make specialist support easier to reach for people affected by illegal money lending across our communities. 

We have joined a growing national network of community organisations working with the England Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT), known as Stop Loan Sharks, to provide safe and accessible ways for people to seek help. 
 
Stop Loan Sharks operates a confidential 24-hour helpline across England. Its access point initiative provides additional, face-to-face support through trusted community locations for people who may find it difficult or unsafe to make contact from home. 
 
Platform colleagues have received specialist training to help people contact Stop Loan Sharks by phone, email or online live chat. Our community Help Centres and drop-ins can also provide a safe and supportive environment for anyone who may not have access to a phone, computer or private space to seek help. 

Chris Pinson-Bradley, Community Engagement Manager at Platform, said: “People affected by illegal money lending can feel frightened, isolated and unsure about where to turn for help. Making that first approach can be particularly difficult if someone doesn’t have access to a phone or computer or simply doesn’t feel safe making contact from home. 

“Becoming an official access point means our community Help Centres and drop-ins can provide a safe and familiar place where people can take that first step and connect with the specialist support available through Stop Loan Sharks. 

“We already have regular Help Centres and drop-ins across many of the communities we serve, where our teams build trusted relationships with local people. This partnership is another way we can use that network to make important support easier to reach. 

“Nobody should feel they have to deal with an illegal lender alone, and we would encourage anyone who is worried about their own situation, or that of someone they know, to seek help.” 

Dave Benbow, Head of the England Illegal Money Lending Team, said: “Illegal lenders are often well known within communities and can target vulnerable people through existing social networks. When someone has been affected by a loan shark, they can feel isolated, frightened and unsure where to turn for help. 

“Taking that first step can be incredibly difficult, particularly if someone doesn't have access to a phone, computer or a safe place to make contact. 

“These new access points are a lifeline. They provide practical, face-to-face support and help people connect with our team. We're delighted that Platform Housing Group has joined the network, giving even more people access to the support and protection they need.” 

Illegal money lenders often operate through existing social networks, with borrowers introduced through friends, family or local contacts. Unlike legitimate lenders, they operate outside the law, often lending money without paperwork and adding excessive charges or interest. What may initially appear to be a friendly arrangement can escalate into intimidation, threats and other forms of abuse when repayments cannot be made. 

Stop Loan Sharks was established more than 20 years ago to investigate and prosecute illegal money lenders, while providing practical and emotional support to people who have borrowed from them. 

Do you need help? 

If you are worried about an illegal lender, either for yourself or someone you know, you can contact Stop Loan Sharks confidentially 24 hours a day by calling 0300 555 2222. 

You can also send a WhatsApp message to 07700 102773 or visit www.stoploansharks.co.uk, where a Live Chat service is available.  
 
WhatsApp and Live Chat operate weekdays from 9am to 8pm. 

Picture caption:  Platform’s Digital Empowerment Officer Hayley Beresford, sharing her Stop Loan Sharks training certificate