AN initiative to help victims of loan sharks bite back will be launched in Bracknell tomorrow (Thursday).

The England Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT) has teamed up with the Public Protection Partnership (PPP) and Berkshire Credit Union to organise a loan shark awareness event in Bracknell Town Centre.

Officers will be outside Bracknell Shopping Centre with mascot Sid the Shark to speak to local residents about illegal money lending and promote the help available to victims between 11am and 3pm.

Berkshire Credit Union will be at the event to offer advice to residents on how to obtain a safe loan and open a savings account, and the first 50 new members to join Berkshire Credit Union and save £10 per month for three months will be awarded with a £25 bonus.

Tony Quigley, Head of the England Illegal Money Lending Team, said: “Loan sharks target some of the most vulnerable people in society and operate in deprived communities so it’s vital we work with our partners to tackle this crime and promote credit unions as they provide a safe and legal alternative to illegal money lenders.

“Officers will be at the event to speak to residents if they have concerns about illegal money lending in their area. We urge anyone affected by loan sharks to contact us in confidence on 0300 555 2222 or visit www.stoploansharks.co.uk.”

Officers from the Public Protection Partnership, a shared service which delivers Trading Standards, Environmental Heath and Licensing across Bracknell Forest, West Berkshire and Wokingham Borough Councils, will be attending the event. Any resident who cannot attend but has any information or concerns is advised to contact Trading Standards either via the Citizens Advice national consumer helpline on 03454 04 05 06 or at TSAdvice@westberks.gov.uk.

Cllr Iain McCracken, Chairman of the Joint Public Protection Committee, said: “In Bracknell we support the important work of the England Illegal Money Lending Team. Local trading standards work with the IMLT, police and other agencies to protect local communities from loan sharks. I would encourage anyone being victimised by a loan shark to come forward and seek help.”