National debt charity StepChange has won a top award for its work to tackle illegal lending and keep its clients safe from loan sharks.
The charity, which has its headquarters in Leeds, has been awarded Partner Plus Accreditation by the IMLT, known as Stop Loan Sharks, in recognition of its ongoing efforts to identify and support people who may have been targeted by illegal money lenders. It is one of only five organisations in England to have won the accreditation.
StepChange and the IMLT have worked closely for a number of years. Through its free debt advice service, the charity regularly supports people facing financial difficulties, including some who may have borrowed from illegal lenders without realising it.
StepChange staff have undertaken specialist training and incorporated extra measures to help them spot the early warning signs of loan shark activity and ensure borrowers are referred for expert support.
Unlike licensed lenders, loan sharks operate outside the law, often giving loans without paperwork and charging excessive interest. They can use intimidation, threats and even violence to enforce repayments, leaving borrowers trapped in a cycle of debt and fear.
Vikki Brownridge, CEO at StepChange Debt Charity, said: “We are delighted to have been recognised for our work to tackle illegal money lending by the IMLT. Our partnership has seen us bring in additional steps to our advice journey to ensure clients are able to disclose this type of debt and get the support they need. A recent addition also saw us introduce a warm transfer directly to the IMLT.
“We’re proud of our long-standing and valued partnership with the IMLT, which continues to evolve as we share best practice, strengthening the support available to people who have experienced harm at the hands of illegal money lenders. By working together, we can ensure that those affected by loan sharks get the expert help and guidance that they need.”
Dave Benbow, head of the IMLT, said: “We are incredibly grateful to everyone at StepChange for their continued support and dedication to helping keep people safe from illegal lending.
“Organisations providing debt advice are often supporting people at their most vulnerable. Some of those individuals may already have been targeted by illegal lenders.
“Illegal lenders often present themselves as a friend offering a favour, so borrowers may not even realise they have been targeted. They simply know they owe money and are facing increasing pressure to repay it, often at the expense of paying for essentials such as rent, household bills or food.
“StepChange staff have shown a real commitment to understanding the signs of illegal lending and asking the right questions to identify those who may be at risk. This accreditation recognises the hard work of the team and their determination to ensure victims get the specialist help and support they need. Congratulations to everyone involved.”
StepChange provides free debt advice and support to people across the UK and helps thousands become debt free each year. In 2025 alone, more than six million people sought help from the organisation.
The Partner Plus Accreditation is awarded to organisations that demonstrate an exceptional commitment to tackling illegal lending, increasing awareness of loan sharks and supporting victims within their communities.
People can visit StepChange.org for free and impartial debt advice, available online 24/7 with expert advisors available to help over the phone on 0800 138 1111 Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm and Saturday 9am to 2pm.
Anyone affected by illegal money lending can contact the Stop Loan Sharks team in confidence by calling the 24/7 helpline on 0300 555 2222 or sending a WhatsApp message to 07700 102773. Support, information and Live Chat are available online at www.stoploansharks.co.uk. WhatsApp and Live Chat services operate from 9am to 8pm, Monday to Friday.
