Summer programme of events to support residents and tackle loan sharks

A series of summer events are taking place across Milton Keynes to help protect residents from illegal money lenders and make it easier for people to access advice and support in their local communities.

The events form part of the ongoing Operation Sharknet campaign, with Milton Keynes City Council working in partnership with the England Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT), Thames Valley Police, SOFEA Community Larder and Acorn Community Bank. Together, they’re bringing information and support directly into neighbourhoods throughout June and July.

The first event took place today at Lidl in Brooklands, where Cllr Saleena Raja, Cabinet Member for Communities and Partnerships, joined partners and ‘Sharky’, the Stop Loan Sharks mascot, to help raise awareness and speak with residents.

People are encouraged to drop by any of the upcoming sessions, whether they’re worried about their finances, think they may have been affected by a loan shark, or simply want to find out more. Advisors will be available to offer guidance, explain the warning signs of illegal lending, and highlight safer, more affordable options.

“We know that financial pressures can affect anyone, and loan sharks often target people when they’re at their most vulnerable. These events are about making sure residents know they’re not alone and that there is support available. I encourage anyone who is concerned, or just wants to understand their options, to come along, have a conversation and get the right advice.”

Events will take place at the following locations:

Wednesday 3 June

• Lidl (foyer), Bletchley: 10.30am–1pm
• Water Hall Larder, Fern Grove, Bletchley: 1.30pm–3.30pm
• Walkabout – Fern Grove, Melfort Drive & Torridon Close: 1.30pm–2.30pm

Monday 13 July

• Lidl (foyer), Blakelands: 10.30am–1pm
• Rainbows Larder, Pepper Hill School, Kingsfold: 1.30pm–3.30pm
• Walkabout – Bekanscot Court & Runnymede, Giffard Park: 1.30pm–2.30pm

Tuesday 14 July

• Lidl (foyer) and Wolverton Library: 10.30am–1pm
• Drop-in at Wolverton Library: 2.30pm–3.30pm
• Walkabout – St George’s Way, Green Lane & Moon Street: 1.30pm–2.30pm

Wednesday 15 July

• Springfield Larder, Springfield Boulevard: 2pm–4pm

Since it was set up in 2004, the IMLT has secured around 434 successful prosecutions, with illegal lenders sentenced to more than 618 years in prison. Over £92 million in illegal debt has been written off, and around 33,000 borrowers have been supported.

Anyone affected by illegal money lending is encouraged to seek help. Support is confidential and available 24/7:

• Call: 0300 555 2222
• Visit: www.stoploansharks.co.uk
• Live Chat via the website
• WhatsApp: 07700 102773