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Vulnerability and bailiffs — the extra protections you have

If you (or someone in your household) is vulnerable, bailiffs must take extra steps — and often must stop entirely.

Bailiffs & Enforcement3 min readReviewed July 2026

The national standards for enforcement agents require them to withdraw and refer the case back to the creditor if they identify a vulnerable person in the household. 'Vulnerable' is broadly defined — mental or physical health conditions, older age, pregnancy, lone parenthood with young children, recent bereavement and more can all qualify.

You do not have to prove vulnerability, but a supporting letter — from a GP, mental health team, social worker or debt help team member — makes it much harder for the visit to continue. Send it to the enforcement company in writing and keep a copy.

If a bailiff continues to visit after being told about vulnerability, you can complain to the enforcement company, then to the certifying court and to the ombudsman-equivalent body for their trade association.

General information, not personalised adviceThis article is written to inform. It isn't personalised debt or legal advice, and Debt Compass is not authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority. A team member can talk you through the options and point you to a free debt help service or authorised insolvency practitioner before you decide on anything.