In this special episode of the Money Made Human podcast, host Gayle Adnyana is joined by Cath Wohlers from Stop Loan Sharks England, John Pollock from the Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit, and Ryan Evans from Stop Loan Sharks Wales. Together, they uncover the hidden world of loan sharking in the UK and highlight the crucial work being done to protect vulnerable borrowers.

The conversation explores what a loan shark is, who might fall victim in today’s society, and how social media and technology have transformed illegal lending. Cath, John, and Ryan discuss the two main challenges of borrowing from a loan shark—financial hardship and the personal toll it takes—and share practical guidance on the pathways out.

Key topics in this episode include:

• The scale of loan sharking across the UK
• Individual-centred support offered by the illegal money lending units
• Advice for credit unions on opening conversations about safe borrowing
• Legal consequences for loan sharks and the importance of awareness
• The personal values and inspiration driving these frontline professionals
• Reassurance for borrowers that they are not alone

Join us for a thoughtful and human-centred discussion on tackling loan sharking and supporting those caught in cycles of predatory lending.

For more information and free, confidential support in your region, visit:

Stop Loan Sharks (England): https://www.stoploansharks.co.uk/

Stop Loan Sharks (Wales): https://www.stoploansharkswales.co.uk/

Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit: https://stopillegallending.co.uk/

Northern Ireland PSNI Illegal Money Lending Advice: https://www.psni.police.uk/safety-and-support/advice-and-information/illegal-money-lending