Earlier today the “Saturday Soup” programme (GFM 96.6) presented by Hazel & Patricia, in conjunction with Gary Mills, featured the topic Financial Matters.
Gary Mills is The Money Advice Councillor with GL-Communities’ Financial Inclusion Fund Debt Advice Team. They are based at Poet’s Corner in Podsmead.
Not only did he warn about the known existence of loan sharks operating within the city, but also sound advice was given about what to do if you find yourself in financial difficulty. Perhaps it would be better to say advice about what NOT to do. Gary reiterated several times, backed up by listeners, that to do nothing was NOT an option. Things will only spiral out of control.
He pointed out that GL-Communities ran a FREE drop-in advice service operated by him and other volunteers. People who were unable to get to the drop in service (e.g. People with disabilities) could arrange appointments to be seen at home. Gary urged people to come and see him at the first sign of difficulty before things get out of hand
A “Drop In” Service runs each week day morning, Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 12.30pm at the Podsmead office. Contact Gary on 01452 541 576 or visit the GL Communities website (see below) to find out more
There was also was also much advice given out during the show including about what to do if visited by bailiffs and also to beware of the adverts offering ‘solutions’ for you debt problems. Do not get involved with the so-called “debt-management” companies or those asking for payments ‘up front’ for free & impartial advice. He repeated that it costs nothing for people to come and see him! The ‘fee’ for his service is zero.
If you think you have been ‘taken’ by a loan shark or know of one operating there is a number to call to report it. “Stop Loan Sharks” 0300 555 22 22 22. If you have borrowed money from an illegal moneylender, THEY have broken the law NOT you, and the money does not have to be paid back
Gary also made the community aware of the Gloucester credit union and asked people to support them. He said that the credit union is the best way to do away with loan sharks and encourage sound financial management in the community
To check out the credit union visit their website
Click to report loan sharks in confidence
GL Communities website
The programme will be repeated at 11-00am. Monday Morning
Check out the Credit Union
