Free Stop Loan Sharks Events Coming to Derbyshire This August

Free Stop Loan Sharks events are taking place across Derbyshire from Monday 24 August to Friday 28 August 2026, giving local people the opportunity to learn how to stay safe from illegal money lenders, access confidential support and discover where to turn for help.

The Stop Loan Sharks team will be visiting towns and communities across the county throughout the week, providing advice, answering questions and raising awareness of the dangers of loan sharks.

Why These Events Matter

Illegal money lenders, commonly known as loan sharks, often target people who are struggling financially or feel they have nowhere else to turn.

Unlike regulated lenders, loan sharks may:

• Charge excessive interest.
• Keep increasing the amount owed.
• Use intimidation or threats.
• Take valuables or bank cards as security.
• Leave people trapped in a cycle of debt.

The Stop Loan Sharks team works across England to investigate illegal money lending while supporting victims and helping communities understand how to recognise the warning signs.

What You Can Expect

These free community events are open to everyone and are a chance to:

• Learn how to recognise the signs of a loan shark.
• Speak confidentially with the Stop Loan Sharks team.
• Find out what support is available if you or someone you know has been affected.
• Discover safe and affordable alternatives to illegal borrowing.
• Pick up free information and advice to help protect yourself, your family and your community.

No appointment is needed—simply drop in during the advertised times.

Event Locations

Monday 24 August

• 11:45am – 2:00pm – Brimington Foodbank, St Michael’s Church Hall, Brimington
• 2:15pm – 4:30pm – Bolsover Library

Tuesday 25 August

• 9:30am – 11:30am – Heanor Library
• 12:30pm – 3:30pm – Long Eaton Health Centre
• 4:00pm – 6:00pm – Ilkeston Library

Wednesday 26 August

• 9:30am – 11:30am – St Oswald’s Hospital, Ashbourne
• 12:00pm – 2:00pm – Reception, County Hall, Matlock
• 2:30pm – 4:30pm – Agricultural Business Centre, Bakewell

Thursday 27 August

• 10:00am – 12:00pm – Matlock Library
• 3:00pm – 5:00pm – The Arc, Clowne

Friday 28 August

• 10:30am – 1:00pm – SDCVS Foodbank, Swadlincote

Safe Borrowing Starts with Knowing Your Options

At Derbyshire Community Bank, we believe everyone should have access to fair, affordable financial services.

If you’re thinking about borrowing money, always choose a regulated lender. If you’re unsure about your options or need support managing your finances, there are organisations across Derbyshire that can help.

As your local credit union, we’re here to provide affordable loans, encourage regular saving and support people in building long-term financial resilience.

Need Help or Want More Information?

If you think you or someone you know may have borrowed from a loan shark, support is available.

Visit www.stoploansharks.co.uk or call the confidential 24-hour helpline on 0300 555 2222.

We can help raise awareness, protect our communities and ensure more people know where to turn for safe, affordable financial support.