Author: Jack Donnelly

CES Stand Against Bully Tactics

In the world of debt recovery and enforcement, the reputation of the industry can often hinge on the behaviour of a minority.

Unfortunately, certain Enforcement Agents or Bailiffs may show unprofessional behaviour that tarnishes the entire industry.

This misrepresentation can lead to a widespread perception of the enforcement community as harsh or even aggressive.

It is vital to address these issues head-on and reaffirm our commitment, as an industry leading company, to professionalism and ethical behaviour in all aspects of enforcement.

At Court Enforcement Specialists (CES), we take great pride in the integrity and accountability of our agents.

Each CES agent undergoes rigorous training and certification, equipping them with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of enforcement law and engage with all individuals in a respectful and empathetic manner.

Our comprehensive training programs ensure that every agent adheres to a strict code of conduct, which emphasises professionalism at every turn.

Empathy is at the core of our operations.

We understand that individuals facing enforcement actions may be dealing with highly stressful situations.

Our agents are trained to approach each case with understanding, seeking to diffuse tense situations rather than escalate them.

This approach not only reflects our values but also encourages a more constructive dialogue between the parties involved.

Recent developments across the country have highlighted the growing concerns within communities regarding the methods employed by some bailiffs in council tax collections.

A notable incident occurred recently when members of the community union Acorn delivered a petition to a local town hall in Brighton, opposing the use of bailiffs for council tax collections.

This petition was presented inside a boot, symbolising the harsh realities faced by many households struggling under financial burdens.

Acorn representatives voiced their position, saying that the council should shift its focus towards “fair repayment plans and an ethical debt collection policy.”

Their initiative reflects the sentiment that current practices may not only be ineffective but also detrimental to the communities they aim to serve.

To counter this, we would say that this is only the case when agents act in an unprofessional way, and that our experiences are much more positive.

Whilst we know that we do things the right way, we can’t speak for every company out there, and Acorn also argue that prioritising ethical approaches in debt recovery is essential, particularly during challenging economic times.

The union revealed a series of statistics which they say reveal the extent of the issue.

One in three individuals who have had interactions with bailiffs reported encountering serious problems, including unlawful entries into properties, misinformation regarding their powers and the confiscation of essential items needed for medical care or employment.

Even a single incident like this is abhorrent, and we condemn any kind of behaviour completely. We are proud of our agents and their approach, and know that these statistics don’t represent the way behave in the industry.

Such accounts depict a distressing picture of the experiences many claim to have faced.

A freedom of information request was also submitted by Acorn, uncovering “troubling data” pertaining to Brighton and Hove City Council's collection practices in 2022.

The findings revealed that while nearly 3,000 instances of bailiff involvement occurred, only 680 repayment plans were established for council tax debts.

According to Acorn, this ratio raises critical questions about the effectiveness and ethics of relying on bailiffs as the primary means of collecting outstanding debts.

Poppy Burt, chair of Acorn Brighton, said “Bailiffs are brutal and unnecessary. These bullies traumatise our communities and leave people afraid of every knock on the door.”

It is sentiments like this that mean the industry has work to do in order to undo the damage to its reputation, caused by a minority of unprofessional agents.

While society may occasionally associate enforcement with intimidation, CES agents are working hard to change that narrative.

Our method involves clear communication, transparency and a fair assessment of each unique situation.
We believe that our role is not solely to recuperate debts but to do so in a manner that respects the dignity of all individuals involved.

It is concerning that some agents may resort to bully tactics, creating an atmosphere of fear and intimidation.

Behaviour like this not only conflicts with our values at CES, but also undermines public trust in the enforcement industry as a whole.

We believe it is essential for reputable companies to stand together and support ethical practices, as this will ultimately benefit our clients, the individuals we work with and the industry as a whole.
At CES, we actively promote a culture of ethical enforcement practices.

We encourage open dialogue within the industry, advocating for higher standards and consistent training to minimise the risk of bullying tactics by any party.

Our aim is to set a clear example, demonstrating that enforcement can be conducted with integrity and respect.

CES remains steadfast in our commitment to maintaining a professional, empathetic and ethical approach to enforcement.

We are dedicated to changing the narrative around our industry, ensuring that all individuals are treated with the respect they deserve.

By taking a strong stance against unprofessional behaviour and promoting ethical practices, we can collectively enhance the reputation of the enforcement industry.

It is our aim to ensure that communities feel safe and supported rather than intimidated.

Renters in England are facing an unsettling spring time, as the anticipated rise in Section 21 eviction notices continues to come to fruition. To add further uncertainty, there has been yet another delay to the Renters Reform Bill.

This disheartening news comes as a kick in the teeth to renters, and right on the heels of other concerning news for the rental marker in England…

…There has been a net loss of 16,000 homes for social rent, something which offers little consolation in the wake of the recent upward trend in no-fault evictions.

It’s a bleak picture indeed, for tenants across the country, especially those who may be struggling with the Cost of Living Crisis.

This extra delay in the Renters Reform Bill has caused real apprehension amongst tenant advocacy groups and housing organisations. At the heart of their concerns is the influence of landlords within parliament, who they believe to be exerting pressure on the government to reconsider the direction of the bill.
It’s hard to say whether this is a factor or not, but delays don’t help to dissuade people from their gut feelings and opinion.

The worry is that this opposition could be one of the key reasons behind the delay. Further questions about the future of tenant protections will be raised, as political manoeuvres take place over the next months, with a General Election looming.

Court Enforcement Specialists are hoping for a swift resolution to this issue. As a key stakeholder, with an important part to play in the landlord-tenant relationship, CES recognises the need for clarity and stability to support both landlords and tenants.

The prolonged delays with the Bill not only worsen the uncertainty, but also exacerbate the challenges faced by both parties. We’re seeing it first hand.

CES is committed to promoting an environment of fairness and stability for all involved, and we are hoping for a balanced approach to legislative reform. For us, it’s about upholding the rights of landlords and tenants whilst encouraging a climate of mutual understanding and support to develop.

It’s easier said than done, of course, especially under a cloud of delay and uncertainty, but in the interests of the well-being of all stakeholders, we are dedicated to working towards sustainable and equitable resolutions that safeguard the interests of landlords and tenants alike.

Uncertainty and legislative delay should not be a barrier to fairness, and we’ll do all we can to ensure that continues to be the case.

Court Enforcement Specialists is proud to raise awareness of the availability of free legal advice for individuals faced with the daunting prospect of eviction or repossession.

This government-backed scheme represents a crucial initiative aimed at extending support to the 38,000 people annually, who find themselves at risk of losing their homes, providing a vital lifeline during their time of need.

The fundamental objective of this scheme is to ensure that individuals facing eviction or repossession have access to legal guidance from the moment they receive a written notice.

Regardless of whether they are tenants or homeowners, the availability of legal support is intended to offer reassurance and practical assistance during what is often an incredibly stressful and unsettling period.

Crucially, the support provided through this scheme is not dependent upon the financial circumstances of the individuals seeking assistance, meaning that legal advice and representation in court are readily accessible to all.

Fairness and equality for those dealing with the threat of losing their homes is vital.
By removing financial barriers, this inclusive approach underlines the commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of all members of the community, irrespective of their economic standing.

CES recognises the importance of accessible legal support in alleviating the burden faced by individuals going through the complexities of eviction or repossession proceedings. It’s never an easy time, and this new availability of free legal advice and court representation shows a real commitment to the principles of justice, ensuring that individuals are not left to confront these challenges alone.

CES encourages individuals who find themselves in a situation where they may lose their home, to take advantage of the support offered through this scheme. By seeking legal advice and representation as early as possible, we know that people can access the guidance and advocacy necessary to move through the intricacies associated with eviction or repossession.

This is about empowering people to make informed decisions and assert their rights effectively.
At CES, we know from experience, that individuals facing eviction or repossession need to know that they are not alone on the journey.

With the backing of this scheme, we hope that those who may be struggling can seek the guidance and representation they need, to navigate their difficult period and safeguard their housing security effectively.

In the past year, we have seen the number of no fault evictions in this country increase by nearly 50%, raising serious concerns about the vulnerability of tenants in England. Section 21 notices, which allow landlords to remove tenants without providing a reason, have been at the centre of this trend…
…and until the Renters Reform Bill is back up for debate in the Commons, this is a trend that only looks like continuing.

With tenants worried about the risk of being removed from their homes, the government has pledged to address this issue through the Bill, and many changes have been promised, including an end to these kinds of evictions, something which would provide much-needed protection for tenants across the country.

Progress has been slow though, and concerns have been raised by organisations like Shelter, who fear that the Bill may be at risk of being sidelined. Despite this, the government has reassured voters that the Bill will soon return to the Commons for further consideration.
As these developments play out, Court Enforcement Specialists are playing an important role in landlord/ tenant relationships.

As intermediaries, we will always uphold the law and ensure fair treatment for all parties involved, going the extra mile where we can for everyone concerned. Whilst representing the interests of our clients, Court Enforcement Specialists also prioritise the well-being of tenants, especially those who may be vulnerable or in need of support.

By guiding tenants towards the appropriate channels of support, we aim to mitigate the impact of evictions and will always advocate for a balanced and compassionate approach to enforcement.
As far as we’re concerned, there is no other way.

As the landscape of tenancy rights continues to evolve, Court Enforcement Specialists remain committed to the mission of operating fairly and effectively, whilst encouraging a supportive environment for tenants.

We are proud of our role as an essential link in the complex relationship between landlords and tenants, and know that, through our proactive efforts, we will help all stakeholders as they navigate the challenges of eviction.

This is about empathy and responsibility, and we align ourselves with the principles of justice and equity in every interaction we take part in.

This is a balancing act in the truest sense, but we’re more than capable of managing it.

The government has announced that the proposed ban on Section 21, or ‘No Fault’ evictions in England, is to be indefinitely delayed, causing stress and concern for millions of renters.

In response, Labour has said that the government has purposefully delayed the plans, meaning that what should have taken months, will now take years, placing more people into vulnerability and at risk of being evicted, through no fault of their own.

For background, Ministers have been promising to end Section 21 Evictions since 2019, but Housing Secretary Michael Gove claims that it is ‘vital’ to update the courts first. At Court Enforcement Specialists, we’re not sure that tenants would agree, but also understand that this news might offer some hope for landlords who have been worried about how they should go about repossessing their properties.

The so-called Renters Reform Bill, that featured in the Conservative Party’s 2019 election manifesto, was debated in the Commons for the first time in October, 4 years after conception. The proposed law, which will ban ‘No Fault’ Section 21 evictions, was only published in May, and so it is easy to see how such a long process can cause concern on both sides of the renting spectrum.

In response to Michael Gove’s reasons for the delay, Labour's Shadow Housing Secretary, Angela Rayner, argued that this is evidence of the government betraying renters with what she calls ‘grubby deal’.

As it stands, Section 21 Evictions allow landlords to evict tenants (who are not on fixed-term contracts) without giving a reason. Upon receiving a Section 21 notice, tenants then two months before their landlord can apply for a court order to evict them.

The Renters Reform would see all tenancies become ‘rolling’ contracts, and so protected from eviction without fault, except in certain circumstances, such as a landlord wishing to sell the property or move in, but even then, the notice would be 6 months instead of 2.

The real benefits for landlords are found with the fact that the reform would make it easier for them to repossess their properties in cases of anti-social behaviour or where the tenant has built up unmanageable arrears.

All of that is irrelevant for now though, as the government has confirmed that Section 21 evictions are going nowhere, until changes have been implemented in the courts system.

The Renters Reform Coalition have been pushing for a ban, and claim that the delay is all part of a desperate last ditch attempt to appease certain members of the Conservative Party.

"The idea that some ill-defined 'court reform' must happen before section 21 no-fault evictions can end is absurd," said campaign manager Tom Darling. "The government promised to end no-fault evictions in 2019 - what have they been doing with the courts since then?"

Whatever the reform means for both landlords and tenants, it’s up in the air until the changes to the courts system, such as moving more processes online, come into place. The worrying thing for tenants facing eviction, is that there is no timescale on any of this.

At Court Enforcement Specialists, we understand the current uncertainty facing tenants and landlords due to recent developments.

The U-turn in the ban on Section 21 evictions has left both parties unsure of their rights and obligations, which adds to the already challenging circumstances brought about by the Cost of Living Crisis.

Tenants are understandably anxious about their housing situation, especially in cases where they are struggling to make ends meet.

There are reports of families who say they are living in a state of "fear and uncertainty" as they attempt to find somewhere that will allow them to move in, as we head towards Christmas.

We empathise with the stress and worry that this level of uncertainty can cause, and we are committed to handling all situations we are instructed on with care and understanding.

After all, a Section 21 Eviction is also called a ‘no fault’ eviction, and so it is unfair for tenants to feel as though they have done anything wrong.

Section 21 Evictions allow landlords to evict tenants without giving them a reason, and from this point, tenants have just two months before their landlord can apply for a court order to evict them.

At the same time however, landlords are also facing uncertainty about what steps they can take to address non-payment of rent and other tenancy-related issues.

We recognise the concerns and challenges that landlords are tackling too, particularly as they move through the changing landscape of tenancy rules and regulations.

In this period of ambiguity and uncertainty, we want tenants and landlords to know that we are here to support and guide them through the challenges ahead.

Our role has always been about more than simply enforcing court orders, and we are dedicated to helping both sides reach amicable terms and achieve open lines of communication.

For us, this is about offering practical advice and finding solutions that are beneficial (or at least workable) for both parties.

For tenants who are struggling, we are committed to pointing them to the appropriate channels of support. We know from experience that the circumstances leading to the inability to pay rent can be complex, and we are here to listen and work with tenants to find a way forward.

Similarly, for landlords who are facing financial strain due to non-payment of rent and their own Cost of Living related difficulties, we are ready to discuss practical solutions and provide full clarity and assistance on the legal avenues available to them.

The Chief Executive of the National Residential Landlords Association, Ben Beadle, believes that current market conditions are forcing landlords to make difficult decisions, as their assets no longer provide a sustainable profit.

It’s a complex situation.
We help landlords navigate these complexities, ensuring that they stay well informed about their rights, as this is the only way they are able to make well informed decisions and take appropriate action.

Our approach has always been about a commitment to fairness and empathy, recognising the human impact of these challenging circumstances.

We aim to build supportive environments for both tenants and landlords, facilitating constructive dialogue and helping them to find mutually beneficial resolutions wherever possible.

Our focus is on working collaboratively with all parties involved to navigate the challenges posed by the current circumstances, and to seek solutions that respect the rights and needs of both tenants and landlords.

We bring a supportive and empathetic approach to enforcement proceedings, promoting transparency, communication and fairness throughout the whole process.

Whilst all this uncertainty continues, current Housing Secretary, Michael Gove, is unwilling to put a timescale on when it will all be worked out.

Court Enforcement Specialists will be ready, whenever that may be.

At Court Enforcement Specialists, we are well aware of the challenges facing both tenants and landlords in Wales during the current Cost of Living crisis. The call for a rent freeze and eviction ban reflects the increasing strain on households, landlords and the rental market as a whole.

The rising cost of living has put significant pressure on tenants, many of whom are dealing with financial instability and the threat of eviction. We acknowledge the difficulties that tenants are facing and the need for measures that can provide some sort of relief during these difficult times.

At the same time however, landlords are also navigating the financial impact of the Cost of Living Crisis, with concerns about rental arrears and the ability to maintain or even repossess their properties.

It is important to consider the challenges landlords are facing too, especially as they try to sustain their rental businesses throughout the economic uncertainties. At Court Enforcement Specialists, we think that the call for a rent freeze and eviction ban has to consider a balanced approach that addresses the needs of both tenants and landlords.

Whilst offering temporary relief to tenants who are struggling, it could have more serious implications on the housing market as a whole, and do little more than move a problem a few months along the line.

At Court Enforcement Specialists, we believe in promoting fair and respectful interactions between parties, and we are committed to providing support and guidance to navigate these challenges.
Our focus is on encouraging open communication and finding solutions that are workable for both tenants and landlords.

We understand the complexities of the current situation and are dedicated to offering expertise and assistance to help address issues related to rent arrears and tenancy matters.

With calls for rent freezes and eviction bans in Wales, Court Enforcement Specialists continues to monitor the situation and remains focused on facilitating constructive dialogue between tenants and landlords.
We use a supportive and empathetic approach, addressing the human impact of these issues and challenging circumstances.

In navigating the Cost of Living crisis and the associated calls for policy changes, we are committed to being a resource for tenants and landlords alike, providing guidance, clarity and a dedication to finding workable solutions that respect the rights and needs of all parties.

Would rent freezes and an eviction ban in Wales work?

What do you think?