In the letter, you receive 7 days prior, ensure to respond stating your situation. Usually, they should give you more time to get advice and make a payment offer to stop them from visiting at all.
Bailiffs might ask you for evidence of your vulnerable status; it is worth providing this information to them if you can. A doctor’s note, for example, can all be helpful evidence. If bailiffs do not believe your evidence, you can complain.
If you are classed as vulnerable, bailiffs should never come into your home and are required to follow extra rules.
You can be classed as vulnerable if:
- you’re disabled, seriously ill or have mental health problems
- you have children or are pregnant – especially if you’re a single parent
- your age makes it hard for you to deal with bailiffs – usually, if you’re under 18 or over 65
- you don’t speak or read English well
- you’ve been through recent stressful or emotional circumstances (e.g becoming unemployed, being a victim of crime, or are grieving for someone who has passed away)
If you are vulnerable the bailiff should let you call someone to act on your behalf. This could be a carer, relative or friend. If Lestons are working with you regarding this debt, we can talk to them on your behalf. Generally speaking, bailiffs are more likely to make adaptations if they hear about your situation from one of these advisers.
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