What is the Association of British Introduction Agencies?What do they stand for?
The ABIA is an industry association that represents and regulates introduction agencies in the UK. They have a code of practice that member agencies must adhere to, promoting ethical standards and professionalism.
Code of Practice (ABIA) for Dating and Introduction Agencies
Forward by Council of A.B.I.A.
In October 1981 the Association of British Introduction Agencies was created, at the instigation of the Office of Fair Trading, in response to genuine concern about the dating sector
Whilst it would be quite wrong to infer that all non-member agencies are questionable, it is a sad fact that many are – not so much through lack of integrity but through a lack of resources and commercial acumen. The dating industry is plagued by the growth of short lived agencies whose founders expect rich returns from poorly researched and funded businesses, with many lasting no longer than a few short weeks.
The role that the ABIA plays is more important today than it’s ever been. Online Dating crime has increased in recent years to become one of the fastest growing categories of crime within the UK.
The Council, are the strength and voice of the ABIA in the fight to keep the standards within the personal matchmaking sector as high as possible.
The dating industry sector has changed immensely over the years, particularly since the arrival of online dating sites and dating apps. ABIA regulated member agencies offer a more careful and considered face to face dating experience with a highly personal approach that only traditional introductions agencies can provide.
Consumers have a strong need for adequate and clear information about the services being offered before any commitment is entered into. The code of practice provisions addressing these are valuable. For your peace of mind consumers can have confidence in knowing that a code of practice will deliver what it promises, and the independent mechanism set up to enforce this code is able to do this.
Last Thursday (8th June) I (Jacqui) attended my first face to face meeting as an elected council member of the ABIA: Held at the magnificent Royal Garden Hotel in Kensington.
Industry Recognition: Being a part of the council demonstrates Select Connections commitment to professionalism and high ethical standards in the matchmaking industry. It enhances our reputation and distinguishes us as a trusted and reputable agency.
Insights and Discussions: Throughout the council meeting, I had the privilege of engaging with esteemed experts, thought leaders, and fellow professionals in the introduction agency sector. During the afternoon we contributed ideas and suggestions to help share industry regulations, standards and guidelines - to ensure a fair and favourable operating environment for all matchmaking/introduction/dating agencies in the industry as a whole.
Knowledge Sharing and Learning: We also discussed; insights into industry trends, best practices, and regulatory updates. Having this knowledge and sharing it can help our members refine their services and stay ahead of the competition.
Key Takeaway: There was a collective commitment to prioritise the well-being of individuals seeking love and companionship. The participants emphasised the importance of maintaining high standards and ethical practices within the introduction agency industry.
This dedication to fostering healthy connections and providing reliable services was truly inspiring and reconfirmed my belief in the transformative power of matchmaking.
Jacqui Baker
Development Officer
Association of British Introduction Agencies
Select Connections (Dating for mid-life & later-in-life Singles)
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