We can support eligible clients by appealing assessment decisions resulting from a Work Capability Assessment (Universal Credit) or Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) or Personal Independence Payment (PIP), including representation at hearings. We can assist at the following stages:
Under the scope of our Housing Loss Prevention Advice Service (HLPAS) contracts, we can provide Early Legal Advice (ELA). This is free legal advice (legal help) on Housing and Welfare Benefits issues to individuals with evidence showing they are at risk of possession proceedings, loss of their home or illegal eviction.
Where a client is not eligible for legal aid, we might be able to assist pro-bono (for free) subject to our capacity, the strength of the case and the client’s level of need.
When a client is eligible for Legal Aid and is within our geographical area, we endeavour to support them. However, our resources are limited, and each case will be assessed according to our capacity, the strength of the case and the client’s level of need.
We generally accept all cases within the above scope from Gloucestershire and Wiltshire. We accept cases qualifying for HLPAS from Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, Hampshire and the surrounding areas and may accept out-of-area referrals where there is no alternative social welfare law provider and there is an appeal of a First-Tier Tribunal decision.
When you refer a client, please send their name, email and phone number to us along with brief background notes. Please also aim to enclose the full paperwork bundle (usually in a brown envelope), along with any additions.
We then obtain the client’s signatures and means evidence in order to assist them.
Where clients are vulnerable, we do request assistance in obtaining signatures and means evidence from the referring partner.
