Grants of up to £5,000 for community projects tackling illegal money lending
The England Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT), known as Stop Loan Sharks, has opened applications for its 2026/27 Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) funding programme. The fund uses money confiscated from convicted loan sharks to support community projects that raise awareness of illegal lending and help protect vulnerable people from financial exploitation.
Grants of up to £5,000 are available for projects that raise awareness of the dangers of loan sharks, encourage people to report illegal money lending and promote the support available through Stop Loan Sharks.
The fund is particularly interested in creative approaches that engage communities and leave a lasting impact. Previous projects have included community murals, youth activities, educational resources, theatre productions, music videos and awareness campaigns.
Applications should demonstrate four key qualities: innovation, community engagement, impact and legacy.
Applications are welcomed from charities, voluntary and community groups, local residents, schools and statutory agencies across England. Projects must demonstrate a clear connection to tackling illegal money lending. General community activities without a meaningful Stop Loan Sharks awareness element are unlikely to meet the funding criteria.
Applications for 2026/27 are now open. No closing date is specified on the main funding webpage, so applicants should consult the downloadable guidance for further details.
Application forms, detailed funding criteria and FAQs can be downloaded from the Stop Loan Sharks website.
Projects that already work with people experiencing financial hardship, social isolation or economic disadvantage may be particularly well placed to apply. Consider how existing community activities could incorporate awareness of illegal lending, encourage conversations about financial exploitation and help people recognise where to seek confidential support.
The strongest applications will demonstrate how the project will reach people who may otherwise be reluctant to seek help, alongside clear evidence of its intended impact and lasting community benefits.