Bailiff referrals for outstanding council tax have seen a significant 30% increase over the past two years, as revealed by a recent analysis. Concerned activists have criticized the use of bailiffs as an outdated and harmful method to handle individuals in debt. Amid financial challenges, many local authorities have raised council tax by the maximum 5%, exacerbating the situation.
Data from the Money Advice Trust indicated a rise from 1.3 million to 1.7 million bailiff referrals for unpaid council tax between the financial years 2024 and 2025. The Debt Justice campaign group’s analysis highlighted this substantial surge. The total council tax debt among struggling households in England has reached a staggering £6.6 billion, prompting calls for a more compassionate approach to debt management instead of resorting to bailiff interventions.
Dean Burn from Debt Justice criticized the use of bailiffs, emphasizing the stress and additional costs faced by those struggling with mounting bills. Campaigners advocate for a shift towards aiding individuals in debt rather than employing punitive measures. While acknowledging the government’s consultation on council tax debt reform, campaigners urge for a ban on bailiffs to prioritize the well-being of debtors.
Grace Brownfield from National Debtline emphasized the need for more support to help individuals repay debts affordably, stressing that escalating debt issues with bailiff involvement is not a sustainable solution. A government spokesperson acknowledged the challenges faced by individuals dealing with unmanageable council tax payments and aggressive bailiff collections, promising plans to establish a fairer system for taxpayers and local councils promptly.