Local Authority Trading Standards services are in line for a 
major funding boost which will help cast a nationwide net to 
catch predatory loan sharks.

SCOTSS has welcomed a government promise of extra cash to build 
on the success of two pilot projects in Glasgow and Birmingham,
which set up specialist teams to crack down on illegal moneylenders,
some charging interest rates of up to 15,000%!

The Birmingham team covers 14 local authorities in the middle 
of England and Glasgow covers the whole of Scotland.

The teams have helped more than 1,000 victims of loan sharks,
wiped out more than £millions of debt and secured a number 
of prosecutions, cautions and injunctions.

Ken Daly, SCOTSS Chairman said: "The success of these teams
sends out a clear message to loan sharks, however and wherever 
they are operating, that they can get caught and they will 
be prosecuted.

He added: "the government's agreement to back specialist teams 
in every part of the country is a huge boost. Any support that 
helps us keep these vulnerable people safe from predatory and 
sometimes violent illegal moneylenders is most welcome, and we
are pleased that Scotland has been at the forefront of developing
this expertise."



SCOTSS advises anyone experiencing financial difficulties and 
in need of debt advice to contact their local trading standards
office, Consumer Direct on 0845 04 05 06, National Debtline on 
0808 808 4000, the Consumer Credit Counselling Service on 
0800 138 1111, Citizens Advice or their local credit union.


SCOTSS spokespeople are available for interview; please contact 
angela.blair@scotss.org.uk for further details or phone 
07769715243