Social Welfare Issues
Social welfare law is concerned with society and the right of individuals within society, particularly (although not necessarily exclusively) disadvantaged individuals. LSA aims to meet otherwise unmet legal need through providing advice and representation, often free to the client, to those who might otherwise experience difficulty in accessing justice. Social welfare law is, accordingly, a very large and diverse area of law that overlaps with draws on many others. For example, social welfare law is concerned with how organs of the state, be they central or local government, may interact with individuals. Have you been fairly treated by your local authority? Do you have special needs, perhaps related to a mental disability, that your council is not catering for properly?
Social welfare law is also concerned with the alleviation of poverty and, therefore, encompasses benefits law. Are you a tenant experiencing difficulty with rent? Are you receiving your fair share of Housing Benefit? Are you a parent with young children who has experienced difficulty with Tax Credits? LSA's Court Department, a team of seven lawyers and one paralegal, may be able to advise people on their rights with regard to such issues, and in some cases we may be able to provide legal representation at a court or tribunal. If we cannot provide assistance directly, we will endeavour to direct you to an agency which can do so.