Insolvency Practitioner Services

Stoke-on-Trent City Council requires the provision of specialist Insolvency Practitioner services to support the recovery of outstanding debts owed to the Council where all standard and conventional debt recovery methods have been exhausted. The appointed provider will act on behalf of the Council to manage and progress complex insolvency cases involving both individuals and corporate entities, with the aim of maximising debt recovery while ensuring full compliance with relevant legislation and professional standards. The service will support the Council's statutory responsibility to collect public funds, including unpaid Council Tax, National Non-Domestic Rates (Business Rates), and Sundry Debts. The successful provider will be expected to deliver a comprehensive end-to-end insolvency service, offering expert advice, case assessment, legal support, administration, and recovery actions throughout the insolvency process. The scope of services includes, but is not limited to, the following: Personal Bankruptcy Proceedings The provider shall assess individual debtor cases and, where appropriate, initiate and manage bankruptcy proceedings. This includes conducting financial investigations, preparing and submitting statutory documentation, liaising with legal representatives and the Insolvency Service, attending hearings where required, and providing recommendations to the Council regarding the viability and anticipated outcomes of bankruptcy action. Corporate Winding-Up Petitions The provider shall manage insolvency proceedings against limited companies and other corporate bodies with outstanding debts owed to the Council. Services will include reviewing case suitability, issuing statutory demands, preparing and presenting winding-up petitions, instructing legal representatives where necessary, attending court proceedings, and overseeing subsequent insolvency processes to maximise recovery opportunities. Estate Insolvency Matters The provider shall advise on and manage cases involving deceased debtors where insolvent estates are identified. This may include conducting asset investigations, engaging with executors, administrators, solicitors, and probate practitioners, assessing the Council's position as a creditor, and undertaking any recovery actions considered appropriate within the legal framework governing insolvent estates. The provider shall offer specialist professional advice to the Council on the suitability of insolvency action in individual cases. This includes reviewing debtor circumstances, identifying potential risks and recovery prospects, advising on legal options, and recommending the most effective and proportionate course of action to achieve the best financial outcome for the Council. The provider shall maintain effective case management arrangements throughout the duration of each matter. This will include maintaining accurate case records, managing all correspondence and documentation, monitoring progress against agreed milestones, and ensuring timely progression of cases through the relevant insolvency procedures. The provider shall supply regular management information and performance reports to the Council. Reports should include details of cases received, actions undertaken, outcomes achieved, monies recovered, costs incurred, and case status updates. The provider will also be responsible for ensuring accurate financial reconciliation of all recovered funds, fees, distributions, and disbursements, supported by transparent audit trails. All services must be delivered in accordance with applicable insolvency legislation, associated regulations, case law, professional standards, and best practice guidance. The provider must hold all necessary licences, authorisations, and professional accreditations required to undertake insolvency work in the United Kingdom. The provider shall also ensure compliance with the Council's policies, procedures, governance requirements, and information security standards. The provider will be expected to work collaboratively with Council officers, legal services, external legal representatives, insolvency bodies, courts, and other stakeholders as required. Clear communication, responsiveness, and professional conduct will be essential throughout the contract period. The primary objectives of the service are to: Maximise recovery of outstanding debts owed to the Council. Deliver cost-effective and proportionate insolvency solutions. Provide expert professional advice in complex recovery cases. Ensure compliance with all statutory and regulatory requirements. Maintain accurate, transparent, and auditable financial records. Reduce financial losses arising from irrecoverable debts. Support the Council in protecting public funds and maintaining effective debt recovery arrangements. The Council is seeking a provider with demonstrable experience in delivering insolvency services for local authorities or other public sector organisations, with the capacity and expertise to manage a varied portfolio of personal, corporate, and estate insolvency cases efficiently and effectively.