Sheffield Star
12 October 2005
Celebrities back debts campaign
MAJOR national celebrities and public figures have joined The Star's appeal for help to fight the problems caused by high-interest doorstep debt in Sheffield.
The citywide campaign, which will be formally launched next Monday, appeals to individuals and employers to invest in the Sheffield Investment Bond, which will raise money to provide unique 'joined-up' services to all of those whose lives are blighted by debt.
These services will include affordable loans, money advice and counselling and access to savings schemes.
The Minister for the Department Work and Pensions, Sheffield Brightside MP David Blunkett, has hailed the campaign as a pioneering and inspiring way of tackling this major issue. He said; "This is a chance for everyone to make a difference. The bond is proven to work."
Author Margaret Drabble said: "The Sheffield Bond has been a great success. It is a safe, simple and easy way to invest in Sheffield and its people. It is so simple and easy to buy a Bond.
"You get regular updates about what a difference your Bond is making, and all the administration was explained very clearly. Sheffield had always been a city with a lot of social initiative and energy, and the Bond expresses our faith in its future."
Nick Clegg, MP for Sheffield Hallam, said: "It's helping in one's own backyard. There is really no downside."
Ann Widdecombe, MP, author and television personality is also backing the bond: "Such schemes are important because they enable communities to take charge of their own future. Ownership is important, it helps Sheffield help Sheffield."
Sheffield Wednesday Manager, Paul Sturrock, said: "Any initiative to help Sheffield people and the local community gets my backing. The Sheffield Investment Bond seems a great idea which benefits everybody involved."
MAJOR national celebrities and public figures have joined The Star's appeal for help to fight the problems caused by high-interest doorstep debt in Sheffield.
The citywide campaign, which will be formally launched next Monday, appeals to individuals and employers to invest in the Sheffield Investment Bond, which will raise money to provide unique 'joined-up' services to all of those whose lives are blighted by debt.
These services will include affordable loans, money advice and counselling and access to savings schemes.
The Minister for the Department Work and Pensions, Sheffield Brightside MP David Blunkett, has hailed the campaign as a pioneering and inspiring way of tackling this major issue. He said; "This is a chance for everyone to make a difference. The bond is proven to work."
Author Margaret Drabble said: "The Sheffield Bond has been a great success. It is a safe, simple and easy way to invest in Sheffield and its people. It is so simple and easy to buy a Bond.
"You get regular updates about what a difference your Bond is making, and all the administration was explained very clearly. Sheffield had always been a city with a lot of social initiative and energy, and the Bond expresses our faith in its future."
Nick Clegg, MP for Sheffield Hallam, said: "It's helping in one's own backyard. There is really no downside."
Ann Widdecombe, MP, author and television personality is also backing the bond: "Such schemes are important because they enable communities to take charge of their own future. Ownership is important, it helps Sheffield help Sheffield."
Sheffield Wednesday Manager, Paul Sturrock, said: "Any initiative to help Sheffield people and the local community gets my backing. The Sheffield Investment Bond seems a great idea which benefits everybody involved."
Neil Warnock, Sheffield United Manager added: "As a born and bred Sheffielder, the bond is a winner for me. It will provide special opportunities to support those most vulnerable in the city."
Sir Bob Kerslake, Chief Executive of Sheffield City Council, is leading the campaign which is targeting key businesses and individuals across the city to raise the money needed to transform the lives of everyone affected.
It is estimated that about 60,000 households in the city may be vulnerable to debt loans, some of which may exceed 900% interest. This in turn causes problems to health, family stability and millions of pounds lost to local communities in loan repayments.
The Sheffield Investment Bond will be introduced to a high profile audience of the city's business, public sector, church and community leaders at a launch event at the refurbished City Hall on Monday.
How can you help?
Individuals and businesses can help by buying a Sheffield Investment Bond by cheque, debit card or by payroll deduction, or by making a donation.
The Bond will open on November 1. To find out more information call freephone 0800 652 8776; or write to Freepost Sheffield Bond; or e-mail: info@sheffieldbond.org.uk