Fownhope’s Heart of Oak Society traces its roots to the age of friendly societies, when communities provided their own safety net. Its anniversary celebrations reveal a tradition still very much alive, says MARK SEDDON
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Legal aid – happy birthday and goodbye?
Established today 70 years ago, legal aid has given the poor protection from the law – now it hangs in the balance, explains LUCY WOOD
Lady Justice
[WilliamCho/Creative Commons]
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ON July 30 1949 the Legal Aid and Advice Act was passed, adding another pillar to the growing welfare state under Clement Attlee’s Labour government. However, like many public services, it is in crisis due to cuts in funding.
Criminal justice solicitor Lucy Osborn has specialised in criminal defence work for many years and spoke about her concern over what she described as a “broken” justice system.
“Everybody needs legal aid — it’s fundamental to our society and access to justice should be there for everyone. Sadly, that’s not the case. If you earn over £236 a week you are unlikely to receive legal aid in a magistrate’s court.”
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