Citizens Advice responds to OFT’s new debt management guidance

23 Mar 2012 10:46 AM

Gillian Guy, Chief Executive at national charity Citizens Advice, said:

"It's good to see the OFT tackle unacceptable marketing practices carried out by many debt management companies.

It's right that firms should end activities such as sending unsolicited text messages, emails and voicemails, and offering inappropriate financial incentives to staff.

But it's not good enough that firms found unfit to hold a credit license remain free to continue trading while they appeal decisions by the OFT. We want to see the OFT urgently empowered to stop this.

It's not necessary to pay for debt advice. Citizens Advice Bureaux offer free impartial advice."

Notes to editors

1. The Citizens Advice service comprises a network of local bureaux, all of which are independent charities, and national charity Citizens Advice. Together we help people resolve their money, legal and other problems by providing information and advice and by influencing policymakers. For more information in England and Wales see citizensadvice.org.uk
2. The advice provided by the Citizens Advice service is free, independent, confidential, and impartial, and available to everyone regardless of race, gender, disability, sexual orientation, religion, age or nationality. For online advice and information see adviceguide.org.uk
3. Citizens Advice Bureaux in England and Wales advised 2.1 million clients on 7.1 million problems from April 2010 to March 2011. For full 2010/2011 service statistics see: citizensadvice.org.uk/press_statistics
4. Out of 22 national charities, the Citizens Advice service is ranked by the general public as being the most helpful, approachable, professional, informative, effective / cost effective, reputable and accountable. (nfpSynergy’s Brand Attributes survey, May 2010).
5. Most Citizens Advice service staff are trained volunteers, working at around 3,300 service outlets across England and Wales.