Debt Collectors guidance

sportbeth

I don't know how the moderators would feel, but perhaps a sticky referencing the steps to take with Debt Collection agencies (letter templates) etc might be useful on here? I know there are several users on here who try and help out with letter info for users and answer questions?

An example of why you should is here. Some people get into debt and eventually a vagueness kicks in with who is chasing you for what. I am sure that I have paid the same company twice for the same small debt in the past because after a while I wasn't sure if they were right or I was. This gentleman would have been right to send the proof of debt letter (which some twitchy Troll users on here say is time wasting and trying to get out of the debt.

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Meanwhile, another nightmare has resurfaced for a reader in the shape of debt collectors Mackenzie Hall. Last year they demanded £147 from Graham Brewis, of Newcastle, relating to an account with Alliance and Leicester.


Graham, who had no knowledge of the debt, asked for my help. And I was told Graham could be assured that he did not owe a penny.


This is what Alliance and Leicester had to say at the time. Again, it's there in black and white.


They said: "The bottom line is that the customer isn't being pursued for this debt any longer. Mr Brewis need have no further worries and will receive no further correspondence relating to this."


But he did . . . another demand from Mackenzie Hall.

Graham said: "I never thought I would have to ask for your help again. Yesterday I returned form honeymoon looking forward to a future where our debts are in order and we are able to work hard for our future happiness and security for our children.

"Please, Mr Justice, can these people be highlighted? Do they realise how this sort of thing affects us?" My first port of call was Alliance and Leicester who once again confirmed that Graham does not owe anything.

A spokesman said: "It is extremely regrettable that Mr Brewis has been contacted by Mackenzie Hall.


"I must emphasise that Alliance and Leicester is not responsible for this communication and we are concerned that Mackenzie Hall is using our name in this matter.


"Mackenzie Hall has again been informed that this must cease immediately. While it is, of course, distressing for Mr Brewis, he is not liable for any debt and should ignore the recent communication from the company."


A spokeswoman for Mackenzie Hall said they could not give any information because of data protection.

Taken from http://icnewcastle.icnetwork.co.uk/sundaysun/mrjustice/tm_objectid=15930467&method=full&siteid=50081&headline=debt-of-gratitude-name_page.html

Any thoughts anyone?