The October InfoExchange session focused on the cost of living crisis, how this effects at pro bono clinics, and how clinics can respond.
Contributing to this session were:
- Hajra Jafri, South West London Law Centres
- John Mahoney, Westway Trust Advisor
-
James Sandbach, Citizens Advice
Citizens Advice have designed a cost of living data dashboard, sharing insights from across their service on how the crisis is affecting the people they help, such as an increase in debt clients, social housing inquiries and foodbank referrals.
South West London Law Centres established a Cost of Living Project with ‘Crisis Navigators’ available for those with rent, mortgage or service charges arrears. The project also provides support with debt advice, connects with local organisations to enhance referrals and outreach to those in need. Hajra also highlighted some of the schemes to help alleviate those suffering debts, including the Debt Respite Scheme.
In May, Hogan Lovells launched a cost of living crisis advice clinic, in partnership with the Westway Trust and St Luke’s Community Trust. The service offers appointments to individuals to help with completing welfare benefits forms, evaluating eligibility for household support funds available from local authorities, exploring other grants available and providing advice on energy bills. This includes but is not limited to housing benefits, council tax reductions, and Thames Water Help. The clinic also aims to help individuals challenge welfare benefit decisions and provides representation in welfare benefit appeals.
Resources:
Thank you to all the speakers.