The Enforcement Conduct Board (ECB) has welcomed the Government’s announcement of stronger regulation of the enforcement sector, calling it a major step forward for consumer protection, industry accountability and fair treatment for people experiencing enforcement action.
The enforcement industry receives more than 7 million cases each year and collects over £1 billion, much of which goes towards the provision of vital public services, so it is important this work is done fairly. The ECB is the independent body that sets standards for fair enforcement, takes action where breaches are identified, and provides an independent complaints service for members of the public who believe they have been treated unfairly by an enforcement firm or agent.
Today the government announced changes to the current regulations that will require Enforcement Agents, commonly known as bailiffs, to work only with ECB-accredited enforcement firms. At present, enforcement firms are not required by statute to be accredited by the ECB, and some have refused to sign up to its standards or oversight. Today’s announcement means Enforcement Agents will no longer be able to work for those firms, providing greater protection for people experiencing enforcement action.
Chris Nichols, CEO said:
“Today’s announcement marks real progress towards a more transparent, accountable and fair enforcement system.
“For the millions of people who experience enforcement action each year, especially those facing vulnerability or financial hardship, this really matters. Enforcement Agents and firms have an essential role to play, but robust oversight is crucial to ensure every person is treated fairly and consistently.
“These new regulations will close the loophole that has allowed some firms to operate outside ECB oversight and will help ensure that everyone is working to the same high standards. They are vital for upholding standards, tackling poor practice and protecting the public.
“So, today’s announcement is welcome, and we look forward to seeing the detail of the measure and working with the Government and industry to ensure its quick implementation.”
DIWEDD
Nodiadau i Olygyddion
– The Enforcement Conduct Board (ECB) is the independent oversight body responsible for overseeing the enforcement industry. Our mission is to ensure that everyone who experiences enforcement action is treated fairly. Find out more about our work here: Pwy ydym ni – bwrdd gorfodi
– The Ministry of Justice’s consultation on regulation of the enforcement sector was published on 9 June 2025 and can be found here Regulation of the debt enforcement sector – GOV.UK
– We set robust standards for firms and agents, ensuring everyone subject to enforcement action is treated fairly. All accredited firms must agree to meet our standards of practice. Safonau – bwrdd ymddygiad gorfodi
– The ECB runs a complaint handling service for those who feel they’ve been treated unfairly by an enforcement firm or agent. The service was launched in January 2025. If we find an agent or firm has breached our standards, we recommend avenues of redress for the complainant, which accredited firms agree to comply with.
– Our 2026 Insight Report brings together data from our complaints and oversight work, giving a comprehensive overview of how the industry is working. The full report is here ECB-Insight-Report-2026.pdf