Body-worn cameras are to be compulsory for bailiffs under government plans to better the treatment of people in debt.
Bailiffs are people who recover debt from people, now bailiffs who recover from private homes will have to wear a body cameras to prevent any unnecessary behaviour such as intimidation.
The decision for body cameras to become compulsory follows complaints about the way in which bailiffs have entered properties and illegally seized possessions. There was complaints of bailiffs refusing to set up affordable payments, charging excessive fees and threats.
The justice minister Paul Maynard said: “The use of intimidation and aggression by some bailiffs is utterly unacceptable, and it is right we do all we can to tackle such behaviour.
“Whilst most bailiffs act above board, body-worn cameras will provide greater security for all involved – not least consumers who are often vulnerable. We are looking carefully at other measures to improve the system and will not hesitate to take action where necessary.”
The Ministry of Justice said they will introduce a 60-day “breathing space” where creditors cannot chase payments, this will improve how those have failed to make payments are treated.
Bailiffs are not meant to enter homes when only children are present. A Committee how firms were telling people that they could break in as they have the right but in fact they did not have the right to do so.
The Civil Enforcement Association, which represents bailiff firms, said: “This decision offers reassurance to the public that standards are consistently high and gives protection to our agents who do a difficult job on behalf of local authorities.”
