Context
Legal aid advice centres in Bradford have faced funding cuts, leading to a reduction in local services and support for vulnerable communities. This issue highlights the need for targeted funding.
Question
What steps are being taken to tackle legal aid advice deserts? I am concerned about the devastating impact of Government funding cuts on Bradford's community advice centres that provide crucial legal support. These cuts have run local grassroot centres into the ground, creating a lack of services in vulnerable communities who need it most. Will the Justice Secretary commit to a 'local first' policy for funding community advice centres and an increase in the number of such centres in Bradford?
Answer from Robert Buckland
The Legal Aid Agency is currently addressing market gaps and frequently renewing capacity for adequate provision. Civil legal aid market sustainability is under consideration, with £5.4 million emergency funding provided during covid-19 to not-for-profit providers. The Law Centres Network received support from this fund. A procurement process has been launched by the Legal Aid Agency to identify new housing and debt advice providers in underserved areas.
Not addressed: Commitment to a 'local first' policy and specific increase in grassroots centres in Bradford
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