Why Law Centres

Accessing legal advice can be difficult for a number of reasons. Although there are a number of private solicitors in Gloucester, for many people there is no possibility of being able to pay for this advice, and in any event many private solicitors do not deal with social welfare law. Several advice agencies offer general advice on many issues and some limited specialist advice, but it may not always be easy for individuals to access the specialist advice that is needed.

Law Centres originated in the 1970's mainly in large urban centres and exist to bridge the gaps and to serve those in most need of help.

Law Centres exist to provide accessible legal advice to those who cannot afford to pay for it. Our work aims to use the law to help combat inequality, discrimination and the causes as well as the effects of poverty, and to ensure that people have someone to champion their rights through legal challenge.

The majority of our funding comes from the Legal Services Commission and Gloucester City Council. We also have grants from Gloucestershire County Council and donations from other sources (see Sponsors Page).   This funding allows us to provide specialist legal advice and representation without charge to our clients

We have a wealth of skills and experience within our team of advisers, which includes solicitors, barristers and experienced caseworkers and community workers. We cover the areas of Social Welfare Law that are not generally covered by private solicitors, which challenge poverty and support the diverse local communities which make up the population of the City Of Gloucester.