Five Decades of Impact

Reflecting on five decades of challenges and accomplishments, the impact of South West Law Centres is both wonderful and sad. Wonderful that we have helped and continue to help thousands of people in need – exactly 5868 this past year. Sad in that we know there are so many we do not and cannot reach within the confines of existing funding. Since we started in 1974, we have expanded our services against the backdrop of limited funding, including significant cuts in legal aid. Many law centres have closed: reducing in number from a high of 63 to the current 39. 

In our 50th anniversary year we continue to be driven by our strongly held belief that everyone, regardless of income, deserves access to legal advice and representation to pursue justice in areas such as housing, welfare benefits, employment, immigration and debt. 

At the Law Centre our staff assist clients facing dire circumstances with passion, urgency, and legal skills that are increasingly becoming scarce as many legal educators and the professional bodies focus on more profitable areas of legal expertise. The stories and case studies of some of those we helped can be read here. 

Our work is guided by a mission to relieve poverty, suffering and distress by providing legal help and education. We are supported by invaluable feedback from community members and leaders. The past 50 years have been marked by significant initiative in how we meet this mission with continuous adaptation to changing circumstances. 

Your support is needed more than ever to ensure we deliver our services for another 50 years. The community needs us. We are here to deliver accessible justice to the most vulnerable in our society. Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness, you can play a vital role in ensuring our mission continues to thrive. 

I am constantly amazed at what our staff and volunteers do to assist our communities with legal support. I extend my gratitude to all those who have worked so hard for us over the last 50 years, and also to all our many funders, pro-bono lawyers, and supporters who have stood by us in our mission.

As we move forward into the next 50 years we can build a stronger, more just community using our legal expertise to support those in need. With your continuing support we will.

Thank you,

Allan Blake
Chair of Trustees