Industry data published this month shows a continued increase in High Court enforcement activity, highlighting its growing significance as a vital tool for debt recovery and supporting the broader economy.
The latest figures from the HCEOA, compiled from annual member submissions to the Ministry of Justice, highlighted:
- A 5% year-on-year increase in new writs received, confirming sustained demand for enforcement services.
- A 7.5% rise in the number of writs where payment was obtained in full, demonstrating improved recovery outcomes.
- A £10.5 million increase in total funds collected, up from £111.2 million in 2023 to £121.7 million in 2024, representing a 10% increase.
Over the last three years, HCEOA members have enforced 443,231 writs, securing nearly £340 million in unpaid judgment debt for creditors nationwide. These figures show the professionalism and efficiency of High Court enforcement officers, but also the vital function they serve in upholding financial justice.
Alan J. Smith, Chair of the High Court Enforcement Officers Association (HCEOA), has welcomed the data, which reveals a steady increase in the volume and value of enforcement actions, particularly in the commercial sector.
“Enforcement is vital to helping businesses and individuals recover what they are lawfully owed, ensuring liquidity in the market and supporting the rule of law.”
“Without the ability to enforce judgments effectively, many businesses would be unable to recover legitimate debts, placing strain on cash flow and, in some cases, threatening their very survival. High Court enforcement ensures that justice extends beyond the courtroom and into real-world outcomes.”
The HCEOA's annual performance data is drawn from mandatory returns submitted by all its members to the Ministry of Justice. This data includes detailed breakdowns of successful and unsuccessful enforcement actions, the proportion of full and part payments recovered, and overall amounts instructed and collected.
The Association receives a high-level summary extract of this data annually, providing a consistent, transparent measure of enforcement activity across the sector.
