Ministry of Justice cuts impact court support

Support Through Court, a national charity dedicated to helping individuals navigate civil and family courts, has expressed deep concern over a £300,000 funding cut from the Ministry of Justice. This reduction has already resulted in the closure of its support services in Chelmsford and Southend, and the charity warns that thousands more could be forced to face court proceedings without necessary guidance.

Emma Taylor, Chief Executive of Support Through Court, articulates the gravity of the situation, noting that “people do not stop coming to court when support disappears.” She explained the complex struggles many litigants in person endure, including issues like family breakdown, domestic abuse, and financial hardship, while attempting to navigate the court system alone. Taylor emphasised that without replacement funding, the charity will be unable to provide the essential support many in need rely on.

The charity has not only been a lifeline for individuals needing assistance but also plays a crucial role in relieving pressure on the justice system. Last year alone, Support Through Court provided assistance on 51,116 occasions across England and Wales through its extensive volunteer network and various support services. As the number of individuals appearing in civil and family courts without legal representation continues to rise, the urgency for adequate funding and resources becomes increasingly apparent.

Support Through Court highlights that its services deliver substantial public value, claiming that the modest £300,000 investment helps facilitate smoother court operations while improving experiences for those representing themselves. As the charity makes an appeal for the Ministry of Justice to reconsider its decision, it seeks the backing of legal professionals and supporters in urging the government to restore funding to this critical service.

In solidarity with the charity's mission, Lord Neuberger, former President of the UK Supreme Court, stated that diminishing support for unrepresented litigants will considerably impact both parties in legal disputes and the courts themselves. He urged that the continuation of this invaluable service is essential for the functioning of a just system.

As Support Through Court navigates the closure of its services, the charity remains committed to raising awareness and advocating for those who face court alone, stressing that no one should be left without the support they need during challenging legal situations. The call to action for supporters to contact MPs and stress the importance of maintaining funding continues as a priority for the organisation.