SHERGROUP ENFORCEMENT

Our Commitment to Supporting Vulnerable Debtors

At Shergroup Enforcement, we understand that dealing with debt can be particularly challenging for vulnerable individuals. We are committed to providing fair, respectful, and appropriate support to all debtors, with special consideration for those in vulnerable situations. This guide outlines our approach and the protections we offer to vulnerable individuals.

Understanding Vulnerability

We recognize that vulnerability can take many forms and may be temporary or permanent. Our enforcement agents are trained to identify and appropriately support individuals who may be vulnerable, including |

  • People with disabilities or serious illnesses, including physical conditions and mental health challenges
  • Individuals who are pregnant or have young children, particularly single parents
  • Elderly individuals (typically over 65) or young people (under 18)
  • People who face language barriers or have difficulty understanding written communications
  • Those experiencing significant life events such as recent bereavement, job loss, or being victims of crime
  • Individuals with compromised immune systems or health conditions requiring special consideration
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Our Support Process

Transparency and Documentation
  • All interactions with judgment debtors are recorded on body-worn cameras
  • This ensures a fair and accurate record of our engagement with judgment debtors, their families, and other individuals present
  • Recordings protect both our enforcement agents and those we interact with
  • All recordings are securely stored in compliance with data protection regulations

Initial Contact and Communication

  • We encourage vulnerable debtors or their representatives to contact us as early as possible
  • Multiple communication channels are available, including phone, email, and written correspondence
  • We ensure all communications are clear, accessible, and available in alternative formats when needed
  • Representatives, carers, or family members with appropriate authority can communicate with us on behalf of vulnerable debtors

Special Considerations

  • Our enforcement agents will never enter a property if only a vulnerable person is present
  • We provide additional time for vulnerable debtors to seek advice and make payment arrangements
  • Our agents are prohibited from taking control of medical equipment or items essential for health and wellbeing
  • We collaborate with authorized representatives and support workers when appropriate documentation is provided

Enforcement Duties

  • As court-appointed enforcement agents, we have a duty to execute court orders effectively
  • During a visit, we will take goods into legal control, including vehicles on the property
  • This is a necessary part of the enforcement process, even in cases involving vulnerable debtors
  • If you are concerned about an upcoming visit, we strongly recommend |
    • Contacting your solicitor for legal advice
    • Speaking with a Citizens Advice Bureau representative
    • Arranging for an adult child, guardian, or other support person to be present
    • Making contact with us before the visit to discuss your situation

Protecting Children and Young People

  • Our agents will not enter premises where only individuals under 16 are present
  • We never engage with children under 12 during our visits
  • Items essential for childcare or children’s well-being are protected from enforcement action

How to Inform Us About Vulnerability

If you or someone you represent is in a vulnerable situation, please |

  1. Contact us as soon as possible via phone or email
  2. Explain the nature of the vulnerability
  3. Provide any relevant supporting documentation (copies are acceptable)
  4. Let us know if you need additional time or special arrangements

Supporting documentation may include |

  • Medical certificates or healthcare professional statements
  • Benefits or social services correspondence
  • Local authority documentation
  • Power of attorney or other legal authority documentation

Our Commitment to Fair Treatment

We are committed to |

  • Providing additional time for vulnerable debtors to seek advice and make arrangements
  • Maintaining confidentiality and managing sensitive information appropriately
  • Training our enforcement agents in identifying and supporting vulnerable individuals
  • Working with debt advice agencies and support services when appropriate
  • Regularly reviewing and updating our vulnerability policies and procedures

Working Together Towards Resolution

Our goal is to work constructively with vulnerable debtors to find appropriate solutions. We can |

  • Discuss flexible payment arrangements
  • Provide additional time to seek debt advice
  • Collaborate with authorized representatives or support services
  • Consider alternative enforcement approaches where appropriate

Need Additional Support?

If you need additional support or wish to discuss your situation your options include |

  • Contacting our dedicated vulnerability team by phone on 0203 588 4240, or chat to us on our website, or email us at [email protected]
  • Seeking advice from Citizens Advice or other debt support services
  • Have a representative contact us on your behalf
  • Requesting alternative communication formats

At Shergroup Enforcement, we believe in treating all individuals with dignity and respect, while showing additional care and consideration for those in vulnerable situations.

We can say hand on heart we are committed to working with you to find the most appropriate way forward.