What we do

The DBSG works for the benefit of those involved in buying and selling debts (or intermediaries in the sale process)

Steering the industry

DBSG Members abide by the Associations Code of Conduct - to instil confidence in the industry generally and contractual relationships between member companies specifically.

Members should:

  • Conduct business lawfully
  • Conduct dealings with debtors in a fair and reasonable manner
  • Maintain a high standard of business practice
  • Compete in a fair and reasonable manner
  • Ensure all staff are provided with adequate training
  • Not discriminate
  • Protect the reputation of clients
  • Not knowingly misrepresent qualifications, experience and abilities
  • Handle transactions in a fair and reasonable manner

The DBSG also develops important documents for mutual benefit:

  • Model Contract - to promote a level playing field - providing a useful ‘trigger’ to question why parties to a sale/purchase contract may seek to exclude any of these clauses
  • Best Practice In The Sale Process - helping determine a fair process for the benefit of both buyer and seller
  • Developing access to data - the DBSG, as a representative group, is working towards achieving membership, for buyers in the group, of CAIS/INSIGHT/SHARE via SCOR.

Consultations

As the industry body we can have truly representative consultations with industry regulators or quasi-regulators; for instance, with the Financial Ombudsman Service - whose Alternative Dispute Resolution process will impact the industry from April 2007. Also the DTI, who are consulting on several Statutory Instruments, some relating to the Consumer Credit Act 2006; Post-Contractual Information and Data Sharing, for example.

In Union, There Is Strength

Together, we can shape the industry, now and in the future. Becoming a member of the DBSG avoids being left out in the cold - but more than this - we believe all those in the industry have a part to play in steering the course of the industry rather than being swept along with wherever the current takes us.

What the DBSG achieves, with you involved:

  • An effective, expert, voice for the industry
  • Defining and ensuring best practice
  • Sharing expertise and providing guidance
  • Encouraging meetings and the exchange of ideas
  • Providing clarity on issues and terminology
  • Ensuring and promoting a responsible industry