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Thank you for reading our newsletter. We are a charity helping people access justice to fight inequality, prevent poverty & challenge discrimination. Access to justice means everyone can uphold their rights on issues affecting them and their communities - their homes, jobs, incomes, health, family, independence, dignity. 
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We did it! We changed DWP guidance on PIP assessments

You may have seen, read or heard the coverage this story received, from the BBC (pictured) and the Guardian amongst others. 

Our welfare benefits team could see DWP policy (in its guidance to medical assessors) effectively encouraging use of stronger and dangerous painkillers (opioids) - counter to what many people want, and to medical advice. Disability benefits were being refused on the basis of the painkiller or dosage being taken as a proxy of the level of pain experienced. The team gathered robust evidence from many cases they worked on where the initial refusal was then overturned in the vast majority of cases at appeal.

Using this study and working to influence the DWP over 2 years with medical experts including Dr Cathy Stannard, and disability groups, the Law Centre eventually forced a change in policy this Autumn - which will be hugely positive for thousands of people across the country. 

We are experts in Welfare Benefits appeals, always at no cost to the client - to find out more contact andyk@bristollawcentre.org.uk

 

The difference we make - Impact Report launched

 

“here I felt supported, helped and prepared.... I have been brought up to stand up for justice...I owe you, I couldn't have done this on my own" 

Last week we launched our first Impact Report (2018/19) covering many areas of our work, with some facts and figures (pictured) but also hearing from clients in their own words. You can download the report on our website, and we'd love to hear your comments, questions and ideas for how we can change more lives in the future.

Legal challenges to discrimination 

We can now help more people experiencing discrimination at work or discrimination outside of work. People experiencing discrimination and eligible for legal aid can ask to be referred to us via the civil legal advice gateway. We can also help people (including those not eligible for legal aid) who have legal expenses insurance - a common add on to household and motor insurance. We can also advise on strength of cases so please get in touch 0117 924 8662 Mon-Friday 9.30-4.30.
 

EU Settlement Scheme

Bristol Law Centre can help with applications to the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) for complex cases (details here)- including supporting professionals if they have a complex case (or need help identifying complexity). Please email eussadvice@bristollawcentre.org.uk.

Our EDIC (Europe Direct Information Centre) has produced an informative animation, and a booklet with information on the scheme and specifically where to get support in Bristol (to get copies - email natashal@bristollawcentre.org.uk)
 

Pro Bono in Bristol

The first week in November was national Pro Bono Week, celebrating the work of private sector lawyers and law students who provide their services for free to those who otherwise couldn’t afford legal advice - often the most vulnerable and disadvantaged people in society.

The need for this assistance has never been greater. While Bristol has a strong charitable advice sector, which provides free legal advice across the city, it cannot possibly address all the needs of the most vulnerable in the city.  

To work towards greater impact and reach, Bristol Pro Bono is a new group formed of representatives from the law firms, advice charities, chambers and universities in Bristol. To find out more and get involved, please contact Jane on janee@bristollawcentre.org.uk

Pictured is Jane Emanuel of Bristol Law Centre, winning a Bristol Law Society Award 2019 for her role in developing & coordinating Bristol Pro Bono. 
"I cannot thank the Law Centre enough for their life & sanity saving work. What stands out most is their kindness. Their patience & forbearance seems endless; & when this is coupled with professionalism, effectiveness & efficiency, it becomes a top level service”.
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Bristol Law Centre · 2 Hide Market · West St · Bristol, Bristol BS2 0BH · United Kingdom

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