Tips and Advice from Healthwatch Torbay

Multi-agency group to tackle loan sharks

Organisations have come together to form The Torbay Financial Awareness Group to share information and protect individuals at risk of financial abuse and take action against the perpetrators who prey on the vulnerable and elderly.

The group which includes Torbay Council, Devon and Cornwall Police, Torbay and South Devon NHS Trust, and Age UK, are working with the national Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT).

“It’s our priority to protect communities from illegal money lending and this new partnership helps by ensuring vital information is shared between the necessary organisations and robust action is taken against unscrupulous loan sharks” said Tony Quigley, Head of IMLT.

The group has been raising awareness of the issue of illegal money lending across Torbay, providing training for frontline workers and local residents, placing banners in prominent locations and organising a social media campaign.

If you or someone you know has been the victim of a loan shark, you can contact the Illegal Money Lending Team on their 24-hour hotline 0300 555 2222

Time for a nice walk

You don’t have to spend lots of money to keep fit and have fund. The NHS website Get Fit for Free says, “Walking is one of the easiest ways to get more activity into your day, lose weight and become healthier. Research shows people who fit moderate activity, such as walking, into their daily life burn more energy than those who make weekly visits to the gym.

But if you fancy something a bit more demanding and a lot more fun, why not try one of the many organised walks that take place every week around Torbay and South Devon.

To whet your appetite, you could join the National Trust English Riviera group on Sunday 2nd February for their 4.5km walk which starts from Noss Marina on the Dart Estuary at 11am and takes in Longwood plantation.

Their Facebook Group recommends you book your free ticket early because demand is high. They also encourage you to bring waterproof footwear and remember dogs on leads are very welcome.

Bob Jope HEALTHWATCH TORBAY