A CAMPAIGN to raise awareness of illegal money lending has been launched by police.

The England Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT) is working with West Mercia Police to deliver a new campaign to raise awareness of loan sharks in Worcester.

The ‘bite back’ campaign involves a targeted leaflet drop, staff training, and IMLT mascot Sid the Shark visiting schools to speak to children about loan sharks.

Officers from the IMLT and Worcester safer neighbourhood teams took part in a leaflet drop on the Martindale Estate on Wednesday July 11 to show residents the work being done and point to the help available if needed.

Sergeant Simon Hallam from West Mercia Police said: “West Mercia Police’s Warndon and Gorsehill and Rainbow Hill safer neighbourhood teams are pleased to be working with the Illegal Money Lending Team as part of the bite back campaign.

"This week of action is about raising awareness of loan sharks and signposting victims to the help and support available.

“Officers will be providing awareness literature to a number of local schools and households within the area. We will be present at supermarkets during the week with our mobile police station, to speak to residents about illegal money lending and related crime.

“It is hoped that this activity will raise awareness and will result in local offenders being identified so the appropriate enforcement action can be taken against them.”