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