Legal aid deserts
Across England and Wales, people cannot access free legal advice because there are not enough legal aid providers in their area. Our legal aid desert maps highlight the impact of government cuts to legal aid on our communities. By investing in legal aid, the government can improve access and level the playing field for us all.
Legal aid deserts mean people on low incomes facing important legal issues are struggling to get the local face-to-face advice they’re legally entitled to.
We have updated three of our maps showing the shortage of providers across the country for:
- community care – 69% of people do not have access to a local provider
- education – 88% of people do not have access to a local provider
- housing – 41% do not have access to a local provider
- immigration and asylum – 63% do not have access to a local provider
- welfare benefits – 82% do not have access to a local provider
These maps were first published in September 2021, following our maps in 2020 and 2019 showing shortages in community care and housing law.
We need a government commitment to ensure the sustainability of these vital public services through regular investment, so more local legal aid providers can stay open.
Legal Aid Means
Legal aid is a public service – one as vital to our communities as education and healthcare.
It should be there for everyone who needs it.
Without access to legal aid, domestic abuse survivors cannot get justice.
Legal aid means someone by your side. Join us to defend it.
Share your experiences
If you’re a legal professional, we’d like you to share examples of the damage that legal aid deserts have caused in your local area.