New safeguards aim to protect the indebted

Measures due to be introduced form part of the tribunals, courts and enforcement bill, which is currently before parliament and aims to ensure the safety of people who are among the “most vulnerable people in our communities”, constitutional affairs minister Vera Baird has announced.

“We have always said forced entry can only be used as a last resort and when all other avenues have been exhausted,” said Ms Baird.

“Today, I’m happy to announce this power will not come into force until those bailiffs who are not crown employees are licensed by an independent regulator,” she continued.

However, it was also revealed that some of those Brits who have accumulated credit card debt could still be vulnerable to having their premises entered if a High Court or County Court ruling is obtained by the bailiff involved.

Last month, the Citizens Advice charity raised concerns that the proposals contained within the tribunals, courts and enforcement bill could put many Brits at an increased risk of having their home entered and their belongings seized.