Bailiff referrals related to outstanding council taxes have seen a significant increase of 30% over the past two years, as per a recent analysis. Advocates expressing concerns over unpaid council tax debts criticize the utilization of bailiffs as an outdated and detrimental approach towards individuals in debt. This surge in bailiff referrals, as reported by the Debt Justice campaign group, has risen to 1.7 million in the financial year 2024-2025 from 1.3 million two years prior.
The accumulating council tax debt of households in England has reached a staggering £6.6 billion, prompting calls for a more compassionate strategy towards those facing arrears instead of resorting to bailiff interventions. Dean Burn from Debt Justice emphasized the negative impact of using bailiffs on individuals struggling with escalating bills, urging local councils to adopt more supportive measures rather than punitive actions.
Although the government’s consultation on reforming council tax debt is a step in the right direction, it does not address the reliance on bailiffs by councils, according to campaign manager Toby Murray. National Debtline’s Head of Debt Advice Communications, Grace Brownfield, highlighted the common issue of council tax debts among individuals seeking assistance, emphasizing the need for affordable repayment solutions over aggressive debt collection methods.
In response, a government representative acknowledged the challenges faced by individuals dealing with unmanageable council tax payments and aggressive bailiff collections, pledging to establish a fairer system for taxpayers and councils promptly.
