Millions of people in debt will get greater protection from rogue bailiffs, under new guidelines that kick in today.
The Ministry of Justice has announced that from Monday, all debt collectors will have to wear body cameras by law.
It said that while the "vast majority" of bailiffs act professionally and within the rules, there are concerns that some are employing intimidating tactics that put both themselves and often vulnerable consumers at risk.
The new rules come 18-months after the Government first put forward plans to reform the system after revealing almost a million people had come into contact with a law-breaking debt collector in Britain.
This included some using forceful tactics that left people feeling terrified and suffering from anxiety.
Monday's rules will form part of the Government's ‘Breathing Space’ scheme which will allow people to have their debts and interest payments frozen while they catch up on arrears, although not until 2021.
It will make body-worn cameras mandatory to ensure debt is collected in a fair and safe manner – enabling it to hold those who do break the law to account.
Justice minister Paul Maynard said: "The use of intimidation and aggression by some bailiffs is utterly unacceptable, and it is right we do all we can to tackle such behaviour.
"Whilst most bailiffs act above board, body-worn cameras will provide greater security for all involved - not least consumers who are often vulnerable.
"We are looking carefully at other measures to improve the system and will not hesitate to take action where necessary."
