The Lady Chief Justice Baroness Carr has lauded the Bar’s contribution to access to justice as its national pro bono charity, Advocate, marked its 30th anniversary with 5,000 barristers on its books
Advocate launched in 1996 with 350 volunteer barristers and a part-time administrator.
Baroness Carr said the judiciary recognised the ‘vital contribution’ made by barristers working pro bono.
Christopher Stacey, who joined as chief executive this week, succeeding Rebecca Wilkie, said: ‘Demand for help continues to grow, while too many people still struggle to access legal support when they need it most.’
In the past five years, applications have risen 48% for employment law help and 21% for housing law help.
Stacey launched Advocate’s three-year strategy: supporting more applicants, engaging more barristers, and building an organisation ready for the future.
