When we take on a debt case we start by maximising your income. Once we are sure that you are getting everything you can, we start prioritising your debts, remembering that the one that screams the loudest is not necessarily the most important. Then we negotiate with Priority Debts to repay something you can afford. Non-priority debts can then have what's left. There's a lot more advice we can give based on your specific situation and we help lots of students in this situation so highly recommend that you come and see us, bringing all your paperwork. You could also look at our Money Management booklet.

 

First of all don't panic. Bailiffs have legally restricted powers which are complex. The most important thing though is that Bailiffs are instructed by a court. This could be for Council Tax arrears, magistrates court fines or non-priority consumer debt. Without a court order, they are not bailiffs and do not have bailiff powers. The powers are different depending on the type of debt. Many normal debt collection agencies are also employed as bailiffs and try to use the confusion to scare people into making payments they can't afford. We recommend that you come and see us urgently bringing the paperwork for this, and all other debts, with you. Oh, and don't let them in or give them any easy entry.

 

The university rules do state that "A student with outstanding tuition fees and/or accommodation fees and/or any other associated fees due to the University" may "have their qualification withheld" or be refused re-enrolement. They also state they can take away services such as the library and computer rooms. It would therefore be a good idea to come and see us for advice on how these rules apply and assistance in challenging or repaying the debt. You can also check out our Money Management booklet.

 

 

If you're concerned about how much you have to live on, then come into the Advice Centre. We can check that you are receiving the correct amount of funding and help you to apply for the Access to Learning Fund. We can also help you with budgetting advice. You could also look at our Money Management booklet.