A campaign aiming to raise £40,000 towards the creation of a law centre in Suffolk has received a cash boost from two companies. East Anglian Chambers and Birketts Solicitors have each donated £1,000, bringing the total collected so far to more than £5,000.
The drive to set up Suffolk Law Centre is being co-ordinated by Ipswich and Suffolk Council for Racial Equality (ISCRE), and is also backed by the Ipswich Star and East Anglian Daily Times.
Audrey Ludwig, director of legal Services at ISCRE, said: “We are extremely grateful to East Anglian Chambers and Birketts for their generous and ongoing support.
“Our fundraising is going well, and people from across Suffolk are voicing their support, which is really encouraging.
“That said, we still need more people to sign up to our campaign and donate what they can – it doesn’t matter how small a donation, every pound that we receive will help us to give legal advice and representation to more people in Suffolk.”
Kate Miller, a barrister from East Anglian Chambers, said the firm was pleased to back the cause.
She added: “Barristers at EA Law – East Anglian Chambers have a long association with ISCRE and the provision of free legal advice to those of limited means who do not qualify for legal aid.
“It is abundantly clear that more and more people are in need of legal advice on matters which will have a profound effect on their wellbeing such as housing and children.
“We are delighted to support this fund raising effort and will continue to work closely with the new Suffolk Law Centre.”
Louise Long, a partner at Birketts Solicitors, said: “A Suffolk Law Centre will provide a vital and necessary service to those without the financial means to access legal advice and justice and Birketts is delighted to be able to support such a worthwhile cause, particularly as it is directly benefitting our local community.”
Suffolk Law Centre will be an independent charity and will provide free legal advice, casework and representation to people who cannot afford a solicitor.
