DEMSA Membership

Trade body DEMSA (Debt Managers Standards Association) was formed to promote good practice in the debt management industry, and to protect the interests of the public and the lenders to whom they owe money.

Chiltern have been voluntary members of DEMSA since it was established in December 2000, and have agreed to follow their strict code of conduct. DEMSA has achieved Office of Fair Trading (OFT) Code Approval, and is the only debt Management trade body to do so.

DEMSA is the first trade body within the debt management industry to successfully secure approval for its code of practice under the OFT Consumer Codes Approval Scheme – for advice on debt management plans (DMP) and Individual Voluntary Arrangements (IVA).

The OFT only approves codes that have proved to be effective over a period of time in safeguarding and promoting the interests of consumers beyond the requirements of the law.

DEMSA aims to encourage the highest standards within the Debt Management Industry and to ensure that debt management clients are dealt with in a responsible, compassionate and transparent manner.

This means that Chiltern’s clients and potential clients can be sure that they will receive impartial debt advice that is tailored to their circumstances, and service standards that exceed the requirements of the law. It also means that Chiltern are permitted to display the OFT code approved logo on all of our letters, brochures and other stationary or promotional items.

Chiltern, as a founder DEMSA member, treat customers fairly and provide quality debt advice to suit a client’s needs. We offer a range of debt help solutions to help customers clear debts. This may mean that a debt management plan or an IVA could be suggested as the best way to clear debts following our initial debt advice.

DEMSA can be contacted at:

Tel: 0113 277 7610
Email: info@demsa.co.uk

OFT can be contacted at:

Tel: 020 7211 8987
Email: consumercodes@oft.gov.uk

Important Information About Our Service & Fees

Whilst we strive in all cases to negotiate the best deal with your creditors, we cannot guarantee a reduction in interest or charges. Also as one of the largest providers of debt management solutions in the UK, we are able to provide initial advice over the phone without charge, however, if a debt solution is taken out, please be aware that fees will be charged. We aim to keep these fees as low as possible and believe that we are very competitively priced. View more detailed information on our fees including examples for each product here.

Further Additional Information

• What if I decide that I don't want to go ahead?
• Will my credit rating be affected?

The insolvency service has produced a guide for people who are struggling with debt, which outlines each of the available solutions.

If an IVA is not maintained it could lead to bankruptcy.