The community union Acorn has engaged in a series of direct actions to challenge institutions over issues related to the cost-of-living crisis. These actions have led to negotiations and concessions from major water companies and a bank.
On 20 August, Acorn's national 'Dignity Not Debt' campaign involved nine protests, which resulted in Yorkshire Water, Severn Trent, United Utilities, and Welsh Water entering negotiations. Yorkshire Water agreed to cease sending bailiffs after vulnerable customers, while Welsh Water committed to not using artificial intelligence for debt-collection decisions or contacting vulnerable individuals. United Utilities pledged to avoid AI in customer dealings and establish a direct route for Acorn members to resolve complaints. Severn Trent agreed to explore writing off debts accumulated since September 2021 and expanding access to discounted bills for low-income households.
Previously, Acorn conducted a national campaign against TSB, targeting 32 bank branches over mortgage conditions that restricted the length of tenancies landlords could offer. This campaign led to the bank entering negotiations and agreeing to change its policy.
In Bristol, Acorn members have campaigned for two years against the council's use of bailiffs for unpaid council tax and other debts. Following what they considered an inadequate offer from negotiations, members voted to escalate their campaign, disrupting and cancelling a full council meeting.