24 Mar 2026
Chair of Liverpool Law Society's Access to Justice Committee says report points to a sector in crisis
Liverpool Access to Advice Network has today published its Demand for Advice and Capacity Report for 2025. This report highlights that demand for free advice in Liverpool is rising at an unsustainable rate - 88.9% of respondents reported increased demand facing their organisations. At the same time, funding and capacity to meet demand is falling.
This report builds on the findings of our 2023 report - you can view this by clicking here. Our research methodologies have been designed and driven forward by our membership. The report's findings were gathered over a research period spanning October to December 2025.
Our report sets out the findings of our latest assessment and highlights the urgent need for coordinated, long‑term solutions to protect access to justice for the communities who need it most. Rising living costs, housing shortages, and delays in public services are driving more residents into crisis, while advice organisations struggle to keep pace with the demand. Staff are stretched, funding is unstable, and the sector’s long‑term sustainability is under threat.
Ian Townley, Chair of Liverpool Law Society's Access to Justice Committee, says:
'This is a well-researched and detailed report and it confirms what those of us working in the sector have known for some time.
It demonstrates that the commitment and hard work of case workers can no longer be expected to plug the gaps, and that the sector is now at a crisis point.
Without urgent and substantial investment the sector will no longer be in a position to operate, and clients with complex needs and issues will be left with nowhere to turn for advice.'
Martin Jungnitz, Independent Chair, says:
'Advice helps people to better access their rights and promotes healthier, happier lives. Sadly, our report shows that advice needs are growing and capacity to meet those needs is under strain. The cost of living and housing crises continue to drive up demand, alongside benefits, debt and immigration issues.
The complexity of the issues facing clients, growing waiting lists, and reduced funding in many areas present major risks to advice provision. I hope that stakeholders, policymakers and funders reading this report will strive to help our members to improve residents' access to advice for a fairer, healthier society.'
Edward Hodgson, Coordinator, says:
'Our Demand for Advice and Capacity Report 2025 confirms that which we already knew: demand for free advice in Liverpool is growing at an unsustainable rate. This report illustrates the reality for residents trying to access advice in alarming clarity. Clients routinely experience frustration and anxiety trying to access the support they need.
This is a system in crisis. Without a radical rethink of the way our sector is structured and funded, health and living standards will plummet.'
Liverpool Access to Advice Network's Demand for Advice and Capacity Report 2025 is available to read by clicking here. A precis of the report can be viewed by clicking here.