Bellenden’s campaign, Reforming Bailiff Legislation, to bring about historic change in the system governing enforcement has been recognised at the prestigious International Public Relations Association (IPRA) Golden World Awards in the Public Affairs (Agency) Category.
Bellenden has worked with the two trade associations representing bailiffs – the Civil Enforcement Association (CIVEA) and the High Court Enforcement Officers Association (HCEOA) – to make the case for reform since 2010.
The reputational challenges faced by the enforcement industry have been an ongoing issue for hundreds of years, despite being caused predominantly by the poor practices of a minority of debt collectors. CIVEA and HCEOA were keen to secure rules covering doorstep conduct and greater transparency about the fees that agents could charge debtors who were enforced against.
In a campaign that took place over four years, Bellenden supported the enforcement industry in delivering the regulations supporting the Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Act 2007. Bridging the gap between the last Labour Government and the Coalition Government from 2010 was a key challenge, but Bellenden were able to deliver a targeted programme of engagement to reach key decision makers and provide the sector with a cross-party network of supporters.
The new regulations were finalised through the Taking Control of Goods Regulations 2013 and took effect on 6 April 2014. The measures will benefit both debtors and creditors and include a new transparent capped system of fees, an enhanced certification process and compulsory training. Together these will raise the standards of the industry and build public confidence in the enforcement process.
Mark Glover, Chief Executive at Bellenden, said: “It’s been fantastic to work with CIVEA and HCEOA on this campaign, and I am delighted that the IPRA has recognised the work of Bellenden’s public policy team, led by Greg Rosen (pictured left), to secure reform of the regulatory framework governing enforcement”.
Commenting on Bellenden’s work, Chairman of HCEOA Martin Leyshon said: “On April 6th 2014, this country witnessed hundreds of years of enforcement law rolled into a single piece of legislation – the Taking Control of Goods Regulations 2013. Without the valuable work and insight of Bellenden, I believe that the change would not have happened. I would highly recommend them”.