DEMSA launches implementation study of recommendations

Wednesday 28th March 2012

The Debt Managers Standards Association (DEMSA) yesterday convened a special summit to consider the recommendations of the Business Innovation and Skills (BIS) committee report into debt management. The meeting brought together DEMSA’s entire membership, which represents approximately 80 per cent of the commercial debt management sector.

The summit was called to discuss how the sector can best address the recommendations of the committee in a way which is both effective for consumers and sustainable for firms.

Following discussions, DEMSA members agreed to launch a third party and independent impact assessment to consider the feasibility of implementing each of the committee’s recommendations.

The BIS committee report suggested a number of improvements to the sector, including: greater transparency over the cost and outcomes of debt advice, the phasing out of up-front fees and effective auditing and protection for client accounts.

Commenting on the meeting, Michael Land, Chairman of DEMSA, said: “There was clear agreement today that the sector must come together and positively respond to the concerns made by the committee. Commercial debt management has a valuable role to play in helping consumers regain control of their finances – a point recognised by Government and consumers alike.”

He continued, “To ensure that consumers can have confidence in the sector, it is vital that we look at how the sector can improve in a way which delivers a fair outcome for consumers and a sustainable commercial environment for firms.”

Michael Land concluded, “I hope that this rigorous study will allow the sector to contribute to the Government’s response to the BIS committee with a clear and informed view on the implementation of the recommendations.”