Mr A (not his real name!), was the very first client through the doors of the Greater Manchester Law Centre, which opened recently to provide a free and independent legal service to those in need.
He was injured in a road accident and, despite surgery, his movement was very restricted and he was in severe pain. But that didn't stop him being found fit for work and having his Employment and Support Allowance stopped.
However, with a Law Centre volunteer as his representative, he has now won his appeal to an independent tribunal and his benefit has been restored... "They have made me and my family very happy" says Mr A "I will never forget what the Law Centre has done for me."
The GM Law Centre, backed by Andy Burnham, Maxine Peake and many others, currently provides legal help for appealing negative ESA decisions and providing assistance with filling in complex ESA50 forms.
However, its sights are set much higher. The Centre is soon to launch a student-run welfare benefits representation service with Manchester Law School, is in the process of hiring a supervising solicitor for the next three years and has earmarked services in Prison Law, mental health and housing.
"We do not just want to be a law centre, but a campaign for law centres generally" says John Nicholson, Chair of the GM Law Centre "Nor do we want just to provide some service delivery, important though that is, on an occasional basis alongside foodbanks or similar.
"While we want lawyers to help us by providing pro bono advice now, this isn't to let Government or Councils off the hook" he adds "We need a new generation of paid social welfare lawyers, we demand the restoration of legal aid, and we are first and foremost a campaign for access to justice for all..."
The GM Law Centre is based in Moss Side but anyone from Salford can use it.
Every Monday (by appointment) the Law Centre is open to help with filling in ESA50 application forms, which lets the DWP know about how an illness or disability affects ability to work, and why ESA (Employment Support Allowance) is the right benefit.
Every Tuesday (by appointment) the Law Centre assists in challenging negative Employment Support Allowance decisions.
To book an appointment phone 0161 769 2244 or email reception@gmlaw.org.uk
You will be asked to complete a referral form and attach a copy of the refusal decision.
For more details on the great work of the GM Law Centre see its website www.gmlaw.org/uk
If you would like to help the Law Centre expand, become a friend or donate see the relevant sections on the website.
GM Law Centre
159 Princess Road
Moss Side M14 4RE
See also previous Salford Star article on the GM Law Centre – click here
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