Sheen says banks force people to use loan sharks

Michael Sheen, a well-known actor, has recently spoken out about a serious issue affecting many people in the UK. He claims that banks are making it increasingly difficult for individuals to access affordable credit, which is forcing some to turn to loan sharks. Loan sharks are illegal money lenders who charge exorbitant interest rates and often use threats to collect debts. In a documentary titled 'Michael Sheen's Debt Campaign,' he revealed that he has personally written off £1 million worth of debt for people in South Wales, but he believes this is merely a small step in addressing a much larger problem. According to Sheen, over eight million people in the UK are currently in debt, with an additional twelve million living on the brink of financial disaster. He stated, 'Until the government makes the banks responsible for affordable credit, the problem will only get worse. ' This highlights the urgency of the situation and the need for systemic change. Sheen emphasized that many individuals who find themselves in debt are not irresponsible; rather, they are hardworking people trying their best to make ends meet. He shared the story of a woman who juggles two jobs, one in the NHS and another as a painter, yet still struggles to pay her bills. He explained that unexpected events, such as job loss or sudden expenses, can easily push someone into a financial crisis. Sheen's goal is to create a lasting change that will help thousands of people escape the cycle of debt. He expressed his admiration for the communities in South Wales, where people have a history of supporting one another. He said, 'It's not going to be around forever, I'm not going to have the opportunity to earn the kind of money that I have been able to earn over the years and I really want to do something worthwhile with it while I've got it. ' To further his cause, Sheen has teamed up with former Prime Minister Gordon Brown to advocate for new legislation aimed at tackling unaffordable credit. They are pushing for the Fair Banking Act, which would require banks to disclose their practices regarding financial exclusion. Sheen believes that this legislation, already implemented in the United States, could compel UK banks to offer more affordable credit options to low-income households. He remarked, 'I think it could be game-changing. ' However, he is concerned that the political process may delay the implementation of these necessary changes, and he knows that many people are in urgent need of assistance. Sheen has reached out to all five major banks in the UK, including Barclays, HSBC, Lloyds, Natwest, and Nationwide, but none have agreed to participate in discussions about the issue. He hopes that by sharing these stories, he can raise awareness and inspire action. In the documentary, Sheen also speaks with workers affected by the closure of steelworks in South Wales, illustrating the profound impact of financial struggles on people's lives. He expressed his empathy, stating, 'It couldn't be more real how much people are hurting. ' Sheen is committed to continuing his fight for change, believing that everyone deserves the opportunity to overcome their financial challenges and live without the burden of debt.