The LawWorks Clinics Network Report uses data to illustrate the challenges facing the sector, while highlighting its unwavering commitment to access to justice.
As legal need continue to grow and resources remain stretched, clinics across the England & Wales are stepping up to meet demand, often with limited capacity and rising complexity in the cases they see. This year’s report reflects not only the scale of support provided, but the human effort behind it: the volunteers, staff, and communities working together to make pro bono advice possible.
At our annual LawWorks Pro Bono Conference, Rebecca Howell, Head of Clinics Programme at LawWorks, took a moment to reflect on the impact of the work carried out by clinics on the network, presenting the figures that told the story:
“I am delighted to be officially launching this year's LawWorks Clinics Network Report, which reflects the work, impact, and ongoing challenges faced by our clinics in 2024.
This year, 284 clinics submitted data, an incredible 91% of the network. That alone is a huge achievement, and I see it as a clear reflection of the commitment that clinics on our network show towards their vital work . Commitment not only to their clients, but to strengthening the wider pro bono community.
Collectively, clinics received over 90,000 enquiries, with more than 61,000 people receiving some form of support. At the heart of this, are over 13,000 volunteers, including students, trainees, solicitors, barristers and administrative staff, whose time and dedication to access to justice make this all possible.
Despite the figures mentioned painting a positive picture, they exist alongside increasingly urgent challenges faced by clinics. In 2024, nearly 24,000 people were unable to be helped; more than double the number from 2023. This reflects the current pressures: clinics are stretched by limited resources, fewer qualified volunteers, and a growing number of cases falling outside of their remit. As a result, many clients are caught in a cycle of signposting, ultimately left without access to the legal help they need.
Family and employment law remain the most common areas of law advised on by clinics, with family law enquiries especially seeing a significant rise. This highlights the continuing impact of the cost-of-living crisis and legal aid deserts, putting enormous pressures on families and individuals across the country.
The report also highlights the complexities many clinics are facing daily; clients arriving later in the legal process, their legal issues getting increasingly complex, often facing barriers such as digital exclusion or low literacy.
One thing is clear from all of this: whilst the incredible clinics on our network are working harder than ever, demand is outpacing capacity. This report is more than just a collection of data; it’s a story of a sector under immense pressure, but still fighting to meet the growing needs. The pro bono community is stepping up time and time again, but it cannot continue to do so indefinitely without the right support.
Thank you again to every clinic, volunteer, and partner who contributed to this year’s report.”
If you're inspired by the work of clinics on the LawWorks network, there are many ways to get involved. If you are a solicitor with a current practising certificate, consider volunteering with one of our 313 clinics or supporting us with a donation.
Every contribution is a step closer to achieving access to justice for all. With your help, we can reach more individuals, communities and support more volunteers.