Northern Ireland Discussion Forum (NIDF)

 

The Northern Ireland Discussion Forum (NIDF) for creditors, debt collection companies and advisers was formed in February 2006.  Its aims and objectives are:

  • Facilitating and organising a non-policy making discussion forum
  • Promoting better communications, best practices, understanding and professionalism among individuals and organisations concerned with consumer credit and personal debt, money/debt advice, debt collection and all related ancillary matters
  • Organising and administering regular meetings and workshops of the forum, and the provision of ongoing information to members
  • Assisting with the resolution of differences that occur from time to time, through networking, whether they are individual cases experienced by either creditors or advisers, or more general harmful differences of opinions.

 

Until September 2007, the NIDF met regularly every quarter in Belfast.  In order to stimulate participation from the creditor community, the decision to change the format and meeting arrangements was then taken and the NIDF organised two Annual Conferences instead of regular meetings. However in 2010 after a successful lower profile meeting in September it was agreed to try to return to more frequent meetings and 2 are planned for 2011.

 

The first NIDF Conference was held in the Stormont Hotel, Belfast on July 3rd, 2008 and the main topic was ‘Mental Health & Debt’.  

 

On September 10th, 2009 the NIDF presented its Second Conference, the subject being ‘Debt Collection in a Downturn’.  This was held at the premises of the Ulster Bank in Donegall Square East, Belfast.  

 

On 24th September 2010 NIDF organised a meeting at Castlereagh Council Offices in Belfast on the subject of “Vulnerable Consumers - exploring the meaning?”

 

Over 40 people attended and it was agreed that it was a very successful meeting.  It comprised four short presentations on the theme of the event followed by 2 workshops.  It concluded after lunch.

 

NIDF plans to organise two fully interactive meetings of the Forum on 2011 - Spring & Autumn.

 

The NIDF differs from the other five UK regional forums in that it does not currently offer membership in the same way.  However, interest in the NIDF is greatly welcomed and we would be pleased to receive your contact details and keep you informed of forum events if you wish to use the form on our ‘Contact Us’ page.