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Last broadcast on Sun, 22 Nov 2009, 20:30 on BBC News Channel (see all broadcasts).
Synopsis
Loan sharks are thriving in recession-hit Britain, as the poor and vulnerable run out of credit and find themselves relying on criminals instead.
Reporter Simon Boazman finds the victims who have suffered brutal violence, and looks at the lenders who can charge 17,000 per cent interest.
Taking a bite out of loan sharks
As the credit crunch continues, Panorama gains access to the teams leading a crackdown on the loan sharks preying on the most vulnerable on housing estates across the UK.
"I was the victim of a loan shark"
Stephanie Plummer tells Panorama about how she became a victim of a loan shark and why she eventually decided to report him to the authorities.
Panorama: Help and advice lines
People affected by unmanageable debt levels or who are victims of loan sharks can turn to these agencies for help.
Credits
- Presenter
- Jeremy Vine
- Participant
- Simon Boazman
- Producer
- John O'Kane
Broadcasts
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Mon 16 Nov 200920:30
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Thu 19 Nov 200904:30
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Fri 20 Nov 200900:25
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Fri 20 Nov 200900:55
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Sun 22 Nov 200920:30
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