As hinted on an earlier blog discussing IVA Factories, we’re more aware than ever of companies out there who seem to be praying on the good nature of people in need for their own gain. Through my work as Chairman of the DRF (Debt Resolution Forum), as well as through my own company, ClearDebt, we’re doing our best to protect people in debt from situations where they may find it difficult to see the wood from the trees – and to do this, we’re keeping you as well informed as possible about any companies you might need to be weary of.
You may already know that over the last few weeks seen several articles have been appearing in the press about the IVA Review Board, who also claim to be the Department for Personal Insolvency Review and Assessment. The parent company of this brand, INTL Marketing, has already had its licence revoked (December 2009) but as they’re appealing this decision, their licence still stands. And during this time, they’re certainly making the most of it – contacting as many people as they can, implying they might be in the wrong/inappropriate IVA and entitled to compensation.
In light of the IVA Council drama, and the Dispatches programme in 2009 on Marlin, I would hope that the public are with their wits and understand, when receiving letters such as the one from the IVA Review Board, It may also interest people that although the IVA Review Board claim they are not connected to the IVA Council, INTL Marketing are named on the letter of apology from the IVA Council when we received this after winning the case against them.
As Chairman of the DRF and a known campaigner for ethics and “grace” within this industry – it saddens me to see activity like this, which could significantly damage someone’s recovery from debt, let alone their personal life.
A letter one of our clients received from the IVA Review Board opens with the statement that they have been “tasked” to review your IVA – and certainly, I can assure my clients, they haven’t! If you receive a letter like this – please speak to your IP first before doing anything else.
For more information on this subject, or if you have any concerns, you can also contact me and direct at: david.mond@cleardebt.co.uk
