Domestic Abuse Victims Legal Aid 2022-02-08
2022-02-08
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The adequacy of support through the legal aid system for victims of domestic abuse is being assessed.
What recent assessment has been made of the adequacy of support provided through the legal aid system for victims of domestic abuse?
The Government are conducting a review of the means test for legal aid, specifically considering domestic abuse victims; this consultation will be published shortly. The cap on mortgage debt used in determining access to civil legal aid has been removed to improve access to legal aid.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific assessment requested was not directly addressed.
Under Review
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The Bellamy review outlines serious and long-standing concerns about criminal legal aid funding, which affects victims of domestic abuse.
What assessment has been made of the impact of a potential CBA strike on the courts backlog? Will engagement with the Criminal Bar Association be committed to ensure victims are not denied access to justice?
I am meeting the Criminal Bar Association later this week and engaging through an all-party parliamentary group webinar. I am engaging with stakeholders to draw up policy for better reform of the criminal justice system.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific assessment requested was not directly addressed.
Under Review
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Lighthouse Women's Aid in Ipswich does important work, and there are seven outposts planned for Ministry of Justice civil servants.
What is the timeline for jobs coming to Ipswich as part of the Ministry of Justice move out of London? What strategy will be implemented to ensure local people benefit?
Further details of the plan to move staff out of London will be set out. The aim is in line with the Government's levelling-up agenda, welcoming support for voluntary sector work like that of Lighthouse Women's Aid.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific timeline and local hiring strategy were not provided.
Future Planning
Response accuracy