WITH days to go before December 25, a warning has been issued to ensure Reading’s Christmas shoppers aren’t falling prey to sharks.
No, we’re not getting a bigger boat, but the council is backing a national anti-loan shark campaign, aimed at helping people avoid getting trapped in a cycle of debt.
Loan sharks offer short-term financial loans with high interest rates, and threats of violence if they are not repaid in time.
The #ShopSmartNotShark initiative aims to help show how to spot the signs of predatory loan sharks, and offer help to those stuck in this trap.
Cllr Karen Rowland, lead councillor for environmental services and community safety at Reading Borough Council, said: “Christmas time can put a lot of pressure on our finances. If you’re struggling, seek help as soon as possible.
“Our Money Matters advice pages have information on food support, finding a warm space, benefits advice, mental health help and more: www.reading.gov.uk/housing/money-matters/.”
Council Trading Standards officers are warning of several pitfalls to avoid this festive period. The team say they have received reports of pedlars taking advantage of Christmas shopping crowds to sell counterfeit goods such as fake toiletries, watches, and tech in Reading town centre.
Many of the goods have been confirmed as fake – materials and ingredients are unknown, and could potentially be unsafe.
There are also warnings to be aware of pop-up stalls and pedlars selling counterfeit alcohol.
Trading Standards say that if alcohol is sold at a bargain price, shopping should look to see if it’s the real thing. Fakes will have spelling mistakes or poorly attached labels on bottles.
Residents are also being warned of the dangers of cheap, unsafe toys which continue to flood the UK marketplace. Those shopping for children’s toys this Christmas are advised to check to ensure products meet safety standards.
Cllr Rowland added: “Unfortunately if something looks too good to be true, it probably is. Always look for the ‘CE’ or ‘UKCA’ mark on the product and think about where your product is coming from.
“Third-party sellers can take advantage of people looking for in-demand products, and these knockoffs often have poor traceability and could be potentially dangerous if the country of manufacture does not adhere to the same safety standards we uphold.
“I would encourage anyone shopping for friends and family this Christmas to familiarise themselves with the quick, easy checks that can be carried out to keep each other safe this festive season.”
If you are concerned a friend or family member might be being taken advantage of by a loan shark, contact the Stop Loan Sharks 24/7 Helpline on 0300 555 2222 or fill in the secure online form at www.stoploansharks.co.uk to receive confidential support.
To find out if a money lender is authorised, check the register on the FCA website at www.fca.org.uk.
For consumer advice or to report unsafe products call the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 1133.
