www.stoploansharks.co.uk

Community organisations, charities and groups are encouraged to apply for grants of up to £5,000 from the England Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT) for projects to help tackle loan sharks. Collaborative bids between multiple agencies are also welcome. The funding comes from money seized from convicted loan sharks under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA). Projects must raise awareness of the dangers of loan sharks, reduce crime and disorder and have a positive impact on communities. Funds can be spent on any worthwhile community project that meets the following criteria:

Contributes to raising the awareness of the dangers of using loan sharks

Prevents crime and disorder and publicises the Stop Loan Sharks message

Promotes the work of the Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT) in communities

Encourages reporting of loan sharks

Deadline: Wednesday 30 June.