Fife Council: Debt 'Written-Off' Isn't Cancelled

Debt owed to Fife Council that's been written off this year hasn't been cancelled, and is still recoverable should the debtors' circumstances change.

£7.9 million was taken off the books as it was considered irrecoverable. Tough economic circumstances over the last year have been blamed for the increase in bad debt.

Eileen Rowand, Head of Revenue and Shared Services, said: "Debt is pursued proactively by the Council and a variety of actions will have been exhausted before write-off is considered Collection staff work closely with colleagues in legal services and external debt collection agencies to ensure that all options are pursued. Write-off will only be considered where there is no realistic hope of recovery or it is not economic to pursue further.

"We understand that there is a difference in those who can’t pay and those who won’t pay and we’d encourage anyone who is experiencing difficulty to get in touch as soon as possible. That way, we can work with them to develop some kind of payment method, which is manageable. It may be companies or individuals who are struggling financially and slipping into debt.

"Some Fifers are facing really tough times and are finding it difficult to keep on top of things financially. We can only help people if they tell us they’re having problems so please get in touch and we can make arrangements to help."

Fife Council says debt write off should be considered alongside debt collection performance and that the level of debt written off within 2014-15 accounts for less than 1.5% of the net amount billed.