Grant News
The England Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT), known as Stop Loan Sharks, has opened its 2026/27 POCA Grants programme, offering grants of up to £5,000 for projects tackling illegal money lending in communities across England. The funding comes from money seized from convicted loan sharks under the Proceeds of Crime Act.
Stop Loan Sharks investigates and prosecutes illegal money lenders and supports people affected by loan sharks. Funding can support community projects that:
- raise awareness of the dangers of loan sharks,
- prevent crime and disorder,
- promote the Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT) in communities.
- and encourage people to report illegal lenders.
Key points / Highlights:
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Grants of up to £5,000 are available.
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Open to local residents, charities, community and voluntary groups, schools and statutory agencies in England.
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Projects should demonstrate innovation, community engagement, impact and a lasting legacy.
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Beneficiaries are communities and people at risk of harm from illegal money lending.
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The application deadline is 5pm on 16 October 2026.
Previous projects have included community murals, sports activities, radio campaigns, creative arts projects and educational initiatives highlighting the risks of illegal lending. Applications are made using the POCA application form available from the Stop Loan Sharks website.
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