Hello again from North East Derbyshire CAB.
Andy, we have noted with genuine interest that the next IVA.CO.UK Debt Debate Monday 4th February 2008 will be discussing Miss-selling of Personal Debt Solutions and as members of this forum we were hoping to have some presence there.
However due to the overwhelming number of debt enquiries (which include problems with IVAs) we have recently experienced, regrettably we are unable to attend.
We have looked through the list of those who are down to attend including members of the expert panel. There seems to be a number of familiar faces which we may have seen or spoken to at the November 2007 MALG Meeting held not too far from the venue of this debate.
Due to our experiences at the bureau we more than welcome this debate and feel that it is very important that the Free, Independent, Impartial Debt Advice Sectors voice should be heard. Unfortunately looking down the list of those down to attend there does not appear to be many (if any) from the above mentioned sector. Please do not take this as a criticism because if anything, it could be argued that any criticism should be directed at our sector for not getting involved in what are certainly important issues.
Nevertheless, below we have listed a number of points and issues relating to problems with IVAs based on real clients at NED-CAB past and present - some of which we have serious social policy concerns about.
- 1 - Alternatives to IVAs not being properly explained and explored with clients encouraged to opt for an IVA when other options more suited and considerably cheaper.
- 2 - Clients not told that their details will be available for public viewing on the Insolvency Service Website.
- 3 - Problems in contacting their Insolvency Practitioners after IVA accepted.
- 4 - Fourth Year clause relating to equity release not fully explained.
- 5 - Disability Living Allowance Benefits included in payment arrangements / vulnerable people.
- 6 - IP fee structure not properly explained.
- 7 - The importance of Independent, Impartial advice and assistance for those who may feel they have been missold an IVA.
We hope and fully expect that some of the above will be raised and discussed by others who attend the debate on Monday. However if not, could we request that someone raise or at least mention them on our behalf. Andy, we have read that you actively engage with the press to help get the voice of the consumer heard and that you are passionate about ensuring people involved in IVAs have the best advice and support available. We are encouraged and impressed by this approach and wondered that in your capacity as Site Manager and Spokesperson for IVA.co.uk you would do us the honours?
Thank you
Please note, anyone who wishes to comment or has any views on the issues or points raised in this post please feel free to respond over the forum.
