NEWS STORY: MARCH 2009
This page was published as a news story on the date shown. The information in it may have been updated on other pages since then. Please use the navigation links, the search facility, or site-map to check.
As the recession bites hard on Britain, loan sharks are getting their teeth into more and more people every day.
Legal and illegal money lending is a problem across north Manchester. Many people get bitten because they don't know what lies ahead - or it looks like there are no other options.
Credit unions are a good alternative to doorstep lenders. If you borrow £100 over one year from a doorstop lender you may have to pay back £171. Exactly the same loan from Manchester Credit Union will cost just £107!
You can get in touch with the Manchester Credit Union at your local housing office at the following times:
Monday, Cheetham Hill Housing Office, 2pm to 3pm
Wednesday, White Moss Road Housing Office, 2pm to 3pm
Friday, Monsall Street Housing Office, 2pm to 3pm
If you have any questions or are worried about your debts, call us as soon as possible on 0161 720 4045. Our money advice service is free and confidential and can help you get your debts under control.
We also have a new Money Advice booklet with plenty of useful information and phone numbers. Visit your local housing office for your free copy.
A new national hotline has been set up specially for reporting loan sharks. Call 0300 555 2222 to report illegal lending in your area.