The government have announced a new Legal Support Grant launching today (1st October) providing funding for 48 front line organisations delivering eviction, problem debt, benefit disputes and family breakdown legal support.
The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) has said £16 million is being allocated to charities including charities and advice providers, including Citizen’s Advice and Shelter Cymru, to expand free legal support both in person and online, helping people “understand their rights, resolve problems and avoid homelessness, financial hardship and unnecessary court action.”
The funding is to be administered by the Access to Justice Foundation, and forms part of the Government’s wider mission to improve access to justice and ensure that financial circumstances are never a barrier to getting help said an MoJ press release. The government added it has invested more than £25 million in additional legal support. Minister for Courts and Legal Services, Sarah Sackman KC said:
“When people face eviction, mounting debts or family breakdown, getting the right help at the right time can make all the difference. This important investment will help people across the country access trusted advice earlier, preventing problems from spiralling into crisis and giving families the breathing space they need to get back on track.”
The programme will run between October 2026 and March 2029. Clare Carter, CEO of the Access to Justice Foundation added: “Across England and Wales, too many people face legal problems that affect every aspect of their lives, from keeping a roof over their head to supporting their family or securing the income they rely on.
“The organisations funded through this programme provide trusted support when people need it most. By investing in their long-term strength and resilience, we can help ensure more people access the legal support they need, while building a stronger understanding of what works to improve access to justice.”
