The latest data released by the Insolvency Service for England & Wales has revealed a significant uptick in personal insolvencies, with figures increasing by 25.1% in February 2024 compared to the previous year. This surge, totaling 10,136 insolvencies, marks the highest recorded in 11 months and the highest for February in over four years.
Breaking down the numbers, the personal insolvency figures comprised 709 bankruptcies, 3,007 debt relief orders (DROs), and 6,420 individual voluntary arrangements (IVAs). Notably, the rise in individual insolvencies compared to February 2023 was primarily driven by a substantial 44% increase in DROs, alongside 16% increases in both bankruptcies and IVAs.
A closer examination of the data reveals that bankruptcies included 594 debtor applications and 115 creditor petitions, representing a 16% increase over February 2023. Debtor applications saw a notable 22% surge, while creditor petitions experienced a slight decline of 9% compared to the previous year.
The surge in personal insolvencies comes amidst ongoing concerns about the rising cost of living, with high energy costs and inflationary pressures impacting household budgets across the nation. Despite a slight decrease in food inflation, prices remain elevated, leading many individuals to seek avenues for saving money and exhibiting reluctance towards major purchases.
Acknowledging the financial challenges faced by individuals, Nicky Fisher, President at R3, emphasized the impact of the government’s recent policy changes on insolvency processes. The removal of fees for entering a DRO and the increase in the debt threshold to £50,000 are expected to result in a higher number of individuals opting for DROs, potentially leading to a decline in other insolvency processes.
Additionally, February 2024 witnessed 8,073 registrations for breathing space, representing a 10% increase from the previous year. This scheme provides individuals with vital respite from creditor collection activities, allowing them the opportunity to devise sustainable debt management plans after seeking professional advice.
In light of these developments, it is imperative for individuals experiencing financial strain to seek timely debt advice and explore the available relief options. Services like National Debtline play a crucial role in guiding individuals towards suitable solutions, ensuring they navigate through financial challenges effectively and regain control over their finances.
As the economic landscape continues to evolve, proactive measures such as budgeting, seeking financial guidance, and exploring debt relief schemes remain essential for individuals striving to overcome financial difficulties and secure a stable financial future.
