Football kit funded through loan shark-seized cash

Young footballers took penalties against the Stop Loan Sharks mascot, Sid the Shark, as part of an awareness week

Money seized from convicted loan sharks is being used to fund equipment for young footballers.

Three hubs in Sunderland have received new kit after £1,600 was given by the England Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT), as well as £500 from the city council.

It comes as the city hosts Kick Loan Sharks Out of Sunderland, an awareness week encouraging people to learn about the dangers of illegal lending.

Dave Benbow, head of the IMLT, said: "By working with young people and their families through football, we hope to raise awareness, prevent harm, and stop illegal lenders in their tracks."

The money is being used to fund equipment at Leisure United's Washington, Downhill and Ford sites.

'May seem tempting'

During the awareness week, which runs until Friday, children can take part in activities, while parents and guardians can receive information packs containing advice and support.

One of the sessions allowed young footballers to take penalties against the Stop Loan Sharks mascot, Sid the Shark.

Over the past 20 years, the IMLT - a national team hosted by Birmingham City Council - has supported tens of thousands of borrowers, made hundreds of arrests and prosecutions, and written off millions in illegal debt.

The money it has given to the hubs had been confiscated from criminals under the Proceeds of Crime Act.

Councillor Beth Jones, the council's cabinet member for communities, culture and tourism, said: "Many people are facing financial challenges at the moment and borrowing money from an illegal lender may seem tempting but it's important to remember that this can make financial problems much worse.

"These loan sharks are criminals who lure people in with seemingly attractive loan offers but will quickly resort to intimidation, threats and even violence to enforce repayment, often trapping borrowers in debt."

Anyone affected by illegal money lending can call the Stop Loan Sharks confidential 24/7 helpline on 0300 555 2222 or visit www.stoploansharks.co.uk.

If you have been affected by this story, advice and support about debt is also available at BBC Action Line.

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