Government Figures Show Steep Rise in Evictions and Repossessions, Highlighting Need for Legal Aid Investment

The Law Society is calling for further legal aid investment following the release of new government figures on evictions and repossessions. The data, published by the Ministry of Justice, shows a significant increase in landlord possession actions, with claims up by 24% from the previous year.

One of the reasons cited for this rise is the impact of rising interest rates, which have led to uncertainty for landlords and may have prompted some to sell their properties and exit the rental market. The government expects these accelerated claims to decrease in England once section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions are abolished through the Renters (Reform) Bill.

While the government is hopeful for the future, the Law Society emphasizes the urgent need for more housing legal aid investment. The recent introduction of the housing loss prevention advice service was welcomed by the Society, but they stress that the service will only be effective if there are enough providers to assist tenants.

Currently, there are 101 HLPAS contracts in place, but accessibility remains an issue. The Law Society President, Lubna Shuja, highlighted the lack of nearby providers, with the closest legal aid adviser in Hull being 16 miles away from the city center.

Without easy access to legal aid providers, the Law Society warns that the scheme will not effectively help those at risk of losing their homes. With increasing demand, the limited number of providers will struggle to accommodate new clients. The call for further legal aid investment is crucial to ensure that individuals facing eviction or repossession have the necessary support and representation to navigate the legal system.