Insights ¦ Consultation on ECB Standards for Enforcement Work – vulnerability and ability to pay

Published by: Enforcement Conduct Board
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Key Take Aways

The ECB has launched a comprehensive consultation on new standards for enforcement work, with a focus on vulnerability and ability to pay, reflecting advancements since the 2014 National Standards.
The primary mission of the ECB is to ensure fairness and prevent adverse outcomes for individuals experiencing enforcement actions, particularly those in vulnerable circumstances.
The draft standards adopt an outcomes-focused, 'define, identify, respond' approach, emphasizing organisational responsibility, proactive identification, and tailored response to vulnerability and ability to pay.
A shift in sector culture is advocated, moving from a reactive stance to a 'vulnerability first' mindset, promoting a more nuanced and compassionate approach across enforcement processes.
The standards recognise vulnerability as fluid, individualised, and potentially transient, driven by four key factors: health, life even...