A Hollywood actor and activist will be coming to Glasgow to speak out against finance providers targeting vulnerable citizens.

Michael Sheen will speak at the event which aims to address exploitation by high cost credit providers.

The actor, known for his roles in the Twilight Saga and The Queen, will be introducing the End High Cost Credit Alliance, which he founded, at the conference in March.

The Alliance seeks to end the damage caused by high cost credit through taking collaborative approaches to tackling changes in regulation, policy, public debate, workforce training and investment in fairer alternatives.

Amid increasing concern about rising household debt and the activities of many high cost lenders, the event will cover practical ideas to create an economy, and a financial services system, that works for everyone.

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The End High Cost Credit Alliance aims to help ethical and responsible finance partners compete with high cost providers.

Attendees at the conference will also include community lenders, banks, government bodies, social investors, the media, think tanks and other policy shapers.

Sheen is well-known for his stage, Hollywood and television acting career and active involvement with causes to alleviate poverty and injustice.

The actor, said: “The Alliance aims to take a collaborative approach to the issues around high cost credit and to tackling those who unfairly target the most vulnerable in our society.

“Collectively and strategically it will be getting behind organisations, providers and initiatives that seek to improve access to fairer credit and support across communities in the UK.

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“The partnership is uniquely placed to take a systems approach to backing what works and investing in new ideas and I am delighted to be able to officially launch the Alliance at the Responsible Finance conference in Glasgow.

"Our message to the public, policy officials and those working so hard to deliver fairer credit is – we agree. Credit is a good thing and can be a really useful tool.

"But, when the system is so unfairly designed to target those who can least afford it we must find ways to step in, present different solutions, show leadership and help those who are trying so hard to deliver a fairer offer.

"We need stronger alternatives, we need greater public debate, policy and regulation that prioritises fair access and other support when credit isn’t the answer.”

Jennifer Tankard, Chief Executive of Responsible Finance, added: "We are delighted that Michael Sheen will be speaking at Responsible Finance 18 to introduce the work of the End High Cost Credit Alliance.

“High cost credit exacerbates household debt problems. Responsible finance providers play a critical role in helping people to access affordable finance, when often their only alternatives are high cost lenders.

"With over 8 million individuals relying on credit to pay for essential household bills, many high-cost lenders act irresponsibly, treat their customers unfairly and prey on their vulnerability.

"In comparison, responsible finance providers are “mission-driven” social enterprises: they treat customers fairly, only lend to those who can afford to repay, are transparent about the costs of borrowing, and provide supportive services that help customers increase financial inclusion.

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"Michael’s attendance at Responsible Finance 18 will help to further increase the profile of the vital work done by the responsible finance sector and partners including the End High Cost Credit Alliance.”

The conference takes place on March 20 and 21 at Glasgow City Chambers.