Half of people would ‘react aggressively’ to an Enforcement Agent at their door

Nearly half of the public (48%) say they would react aggressively or with verbal or physical abuse towards an Enforcement Agent(commonly known as a bailiff), visiting their property despite public sympathy for their role, according to research by the Civil Enforcement Associations (CIVEA).

Contrary to this, the findings also show strong public support for the agents’ work in upholding the rule of law, with 64% agreeing that if people who can pay their council tax refuse to do so, there needs to be a way of collecting the money to support essential public services.

The vast majority (80%) of those polled expressed sympathy for Enforcement Agents who experience verbal or physical violence, and 66% agree there should be stronger legal penalties for those who are violent towards them.

The survey highlights the daily challenges faced by Enforcement Agents and the growing levels of aggression they encounter from the public. The findings have prompted calls for two key asks: greater awareness of the legitimate role and legal powers of Enforcement Agents; and stronger partnerships with the police to address instances of aggressive behaviour.

The public survey results mirror the experience felt by Enforcement Agents. A parallel survey of over 300 CIVEA members showed over half (56%) face verbal threats at least once a week whilst the majority (58%) say the frequency of threats and physical violence is increasing.

Almost every agent polled (98.7%) called for stronger penalties for members of the public who abuse or assault agents in the course of their duties. Despite the risks they face, close to two-thirds (58%) of agents questioned still said they had not considered quitting their job as a result of the intimidation faced.

Responding to the findings, Russell Hamblin-Boone, Chief Executive of CIVEA, said “It is deeply concerning to see an increase in reports of physical violence and threats towards Enforcement Agents and the risk they face in the course of their duties. Enforcement Agents are working on behalf of local councils to support and help people manage their debt.

“In the current cost of living crisis, many people are struggling but it’s a common myth that Enforcement Agents turn up unannounced. Enforcement action is actually a last resort after multiple letters, phone calls and emails haven’t been responded to and the council has taken the case to court.

“That’s why it’s so important for people to engage early as often councils won’t have any details about their situation. Enforcement Agents are often the first to see when someone’s struggling behind closed doors. Last year, they helped over 350,000 vulnerable people get the support they needed from their local councils.

“We recognise that speaking to an Enforcement Agent can be a stressful experience, but violence or verbal abuse is never an acceptable response. That’s why, as part of our Safer Enforcement campaign, we are focussed on educating the public about the lawful role and powers that Enforcement Agents have. We will also be engaging the police in responding to assaults on Enforcement Agents.”

The public survey also found that less than half of the public (45%) are aware that the money collected by Enforcement Agents goes towards funding vital public services, such as schools, libraries, adult and children’s care, and road repairs. Last year, Enforcement Agents recovered around £1 billion for councils, money that keeps classrooms open, supports families in need, and helps maintain the communities the public rely on.

Hamblin-Boone concluded “Councils across the country are struggling to deliver vital services due to mounting financial pressures. The collection of unpaid council tax debt is a necessary step in recouping payment from those refusing to pay, not those who can’t pay.”