So nobody collects by DD
There's a BIG difference between a Standing Order and a Direct Debit.
With a standing order, you're basically (or rather the customer) is telling their bank to pay X amount per frequency.
With a Direct Debit, companies can increase or decrease the amount they deduct without the 'owner's' consent.
So basically, unless you're a big firm that fulfills a certain criteria, then you won't be able to have a Direct Debit facility.
You will however be able to get your customers to sign up for a Standing order.
But there's pros and cons to this.