Ruth Daniel discusses how to provide access to justice for those most in need
Following the recent cuts in central and local government funding for free legal advice, the demand for pro bono has dramatically increased. In July 2014 the Bar Pro Bono Unit saw referrals increase by 51% compared with July 2013 and LawWorks have seen a 25% increase in cases at its clinics.
This increased demand creates a corresponding need for an increase in funding. Lawyers continue to offer their time for free, but without advice agencies such as Law Centres and clearing houses such as the Bar Pro Bono Unit, those lawyers would have nowhere to go.
The Access to Justice Foundation aims to improve access to justice for the most vulnerable in society, and works strategically to fund organisations which provide free legal help to those most in need. Following the devastating legal aid and other funding cuts, the Foundation has focused its resources on the provision of national infrastructure alongside ensuring services at front line organisations are sustained and even created in areas which are without specialist
