A CHARITY which offers people an alternative to payday loans and store cards has received a much-needed grant.

NILS (No Interest Loan Scheme), which helps people in acute financial need, has received a £5,000 grant from the E F Bulmer Fund.

With branches in Tenbury Wells and Ludlow, as well as its office in Leominster Library, NILS offers a no-interest alternative to payday loans and store cards that charge excessive rates of interest and push people into debt as they struggle to repay.

NILS chair of trustees Angela Vint said: “It was a grant from the EF Bulmer Fund that originally allowed us to open the NILS office in Leominster Library and we are extremely grateful for the fund’s continued support.”

NILS buys essential items such as washing machines, medical equipment and school uniforms direct from independent suppliers on behalf of clients who then repay the loan at a rate they can afford with no interest or extra charges.

James Greenfield, E F Bulmer Fund administrator, said: “It is heartening to see a small local charity giving such essential assistance to local people.”

If you would like to learn more about NILS, apply for a no-interest loan or support the charity in any way please go to: www.nils.org.uk , email: enquiries@nils.org.uk or call 01432 383129.