In November the Government announced proposals to cut legal aid by £350 million.

This means a cut of around 60% on civil legal aid.

Over half a million people on low incomes could be cut off from free legal advice, the consequences can be dire – spiralling debt, homelessness, family breakdown, domestic violence, depression.

Without legal aid funding many Advice suppliers may close.

It is false economy. When people get legal advice early, for every £1 spent on legal aid the taxpayer saves £10 on costs to other public services further down the line.

Don’t shake your head in dispair, you can help to stop these proposals.

If you want to ensure that everyone is treated fairly under the law, no matter who they are, how much money they have or where they live, then make your opinion count.

Here’s how you can get involved:

* Join the ‘Justice for All’ campaign at www.justice-for-all.org.uk

If you or someone you know has been helped by legal aid tell the story by registering at www.mylegal.proboards.com.

Respond to the green paper consultation yourself by email (every NO response must be logged) legalaidreformmoj@justice.gsi.gov.uk.

Free, confidential advice and help is available on any aspect of this article as well as debt, benefits, employment, and any other problems.

You can contact the Grange or Windermere Citizens Advice Bureau by phone or in person. Call 015395 33100 / 015394 46464.