A NOT-FOR-PROFIT loan scheme which aims to help people who can't access credit from traditional sources has opened two new offices in North Staffordshire.

The Moneyline, which originated in East Lancashire, has opened its 13th and 14th bases in Hanley and Newcastle.

The organisation specialises in making small, affordable loans to people who are unable to get credit from banks or building societies and who might otherwise resort to loan sharks or doorstep lenders.

Karen Ankers, of The Moneyline's Hanley office, said: "We aim to offer an affordable alternative to the home credit market and loan sharks."

She said the organisation's research has revealed that many families on low incomes in North Staffordshire are paying upwards of £75 per £100 for credit from such sources.

She said: "We specialise in lending money to people who can't get credit from traditional sources such as banks – maybe tenants or people on benefits."

Payments are taken directly from customers' bank accounts to keep costs down.

The two new offices, in Cheapside in Hanley and Bridge Street in Newcastle, have created the equivalent of five-and-half full-time jobs.

For more information visit the offices or call Hanley on 01782 206 836 or Newcastle on 01782 629 594.