Aggressive bailiffs are set to face renewed scrutiny under new plans to end intimidating practices and better protect vulnerable people. Claire Bond, Fellow of the Institute of Legal Executives said, “The majority of bailiffs work within the law, but it is clear some are making lives a misery and ruining the industry’s reputation.”.
Sweeping Government reforms in 2014 significantly curtailed bailiffs’ powers, as well as improving transparency and ensuring those with outstanding debts knew their rights.
Having listened to concerns from charities, debt advice organisations and others, the Government launched in late November 2018 a Call for Evidence to seek views on what more should be done to protect the public.
Vulnerable individuals, families, and other victims of unacceptable bailiff behaviour will be asked about tougher protections, including the option of an independent regulator.
The Call for Evidence will allow all those with an interest - including charities and other stakeholders - to speak out on the impact of earlier reforms and on how best to end underhand tactics. In detail, the Government is seeking views on: