Irish parents urged to stay away from loan sharks ahead of Communion season

Communion season is just around the corner

Many parents are feeling the pressure as Communion season gets closer but are being urged not to trust loan sharks.

Communion season is more expensive than ever before, with some families spending thousands on the big celebration.

It's not just a religious ceremony but a huge celebration that fills up our Instagram feeds every May.

Between balloon arches, customised cupcakes, and the special dress or suit, parents are spending more money than ever before on their child's big day.

The Money Advice and Budgeting Service has warned those in low-income areas to be aware of loan sharks.

Borrowing money for the big day may seem appealing, but they're not to be trusted.

The illegal door-to-door lenders target vulnerable families, but the public has been urged to stay away from their services.

"Communions are one of the big special family events that can become very costly, and there is often a lot of pressure on families to spend money they simply don’t have on the celebrations," a spokesperson for MABS warned.

"Illegal moneylenders are aware of this and are looking out for people who are struggling with their finances," they added.

Remember not to put yourself under too much financial pressure this Communion season. Focusing on your child's happiness and the true meaning of the celebration should be the key focus instead of spending hundreds on decorations that will end up in the bin after the big day.