As part of the UK Government's focus on problem debt and vulnerable customers, it has published a draft version of regulations setting up the first part of the long-awaited Debt Respite Scheme, which provides eligible debtors with a 60 day moratorium period where interest, fees and charges are frozen and enforcement action is paused. This 'breathing space' is expected to increase positive outcomes for individuals struggling with problem debt. The draft regulations represent a material change to creditors' arrears handling and enforcement procedures, making it crucial to identify the necessary systems changes and wider practical implications at an early stage. The publication of this first element of the Debt Respite Scheme is particularly timely given the likely economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. It is anticipated that the breathing space scheme will launch on 4 May 2021.
