THIRTEEN is lending its support to a national campaign aiming to help tackle loan sharks.

A week of action was held in North Ormesby to raise awareness of illegal money lending and signpost victims to support outlets.

The campaign was the result of a partnership between the England Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT), Moneywise Credit Union and the wider North Ormesby Locality Working Team which includes partners such as Thirteen, Middlesbrough Council and Cleveland Police.

During the week, officers took part in a leaflet drop in North Ormesby where they spoke to residents about illegal money lending and provided real alternatives and assistance for those struggling financially.

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The campaign’s mascot, Sid the Shark, also made an appearance to raise awareness of the issue and provide safety information and advice.

Tony Quigley, Head of the England Illegal Money Lending Team, said: “We know that illegal money lenders operate in communities and that they exploit the most vulnerable people. The campaign aims to raise people’s awareness of the problem and let them know where to go for help and support.

“We encourage anyone who has been targeted by loan sharks or who has concerns about someone they know to please get in touch. We have helped over 30,000 people affected by this crime get their lives back through specialist support.”

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