Wigan teens bite back at loan sharks with campaign for national organisation

The youngsters made videos with Stop Loan Sharks, the England Illegal Money Lending Team, which investigates and prosecutes loan sharks in England.

Their mini news report, TV-style advert, TikToks and Instagram reels were created with support from youth organisation Media Cubs to help warn their peers about the dangers of borrowing from loan sharks, using current trends to help spread the message.

The teens were recruited from Wigan Youth Zone for six weeks of content creation sessions and they helped to share advice about how to spot a loan shark and what to do if you have borrowed from one.

More than one million people in England are currently in debt to a loan shark and they are increasingly operating online, using social media to entice and exploit new victims.

Tony Quigley, head of the England Illegal Money Lending Team, said: “Thank you to this talented group of young minds who have dedicated their time to creating a powerful digital project aimed at exposing the dangers of illegal money lenders.

“Their creativity and passion will help others to recognise the risks, prevent illegal money lending and help steer people towards our organisation should they need any help or support, which is invaluable.

“If you, or anyone you know, has experienced any of these things or has any knowledge of loan shark activities, then please contact our team in complete confidence.”

Two suspected loan sharks were arrested in Wigan in February thanks to the Illegal Money Lending Team.

They recommend borrowing with a local credit union instead – something the young reporters have been helping to promote.

Kirsty Day, project lead for Media Cubs, said: “Our reporters have done a fantastic job of spreading such a vital message while learning some new media skills along the way, such as camera work, presenting and animation, which has been excellent to see the development of.

“Young people know best about how to communicate with other young people, and they have definitely used this project as a force for good.”

Stop Loan Sharks, along with Digital Arts Box and Unify Credit Union, held a free event over Easter at the Grand Arcade shopping centre, where Sid the Shark made keyring crafts with families.