In the UK there is currently no requirement for a Private Investigator to be licensed although this is due to change in 2007. Speak to an agency direct is often the best way to determine whether or not they are right for you. Also check to see if they belong to a trade association such as the ABI.

The current legislation does not allow the self-employed or individuals to apply for a CRB check on themselves. In addition, parents who employ a nanny/au pair/babysitter directly cannot apply for a CRB check; however, if an agency supplies the nanny/au pair/babysitter, the agency is entitled to carry out a CRB check.

The issue of harassing a debtor is governed by Section 40 of the Administration of Justice Act 1970 which makes it an offence to harass a debtor and describes harassment as contacting the debtor in a manner or frequency which is unreasonable.

What is considered unreasonable is difficult to define and it may be that a court is asked to decide this. As a general guideline, if calls are made too often or at unreasonable times of day (generally considered to be before 8am or after 9pm), that would be harassment.

If a debtor has asked a creditor not to telephone, there is a risk that continuing to do so might constitute harassment.

Your first step should be to contact the receivers. When a company goes into administration then receivers are appointed. It is their responsibility to distribute any funds to creditors, if there are any left. You should ensure your claim is lodged. Once you get in touch with them, request a Proof of Debt Form. The receiver may well be aware of the debt and you may likely receive a letter and form from the receiver in due course anyway. Unfortunately, if the debtor is insolvent you are unlikely to recover your money. If the debtor can only repay a portion of the total debts owed, then a pro-rata distribution would be made.

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