'Many people unaware of legal aid'

A considerable number of people in the UK are unaware of legal aid, it has been suggested.

Writing in the Guardian, Carolyn Regan described the phenomenon as a "vital resource" and the "fourth pillar of the welfare state".

However, she claimed that many people do not know what it is.

She cited figures from a Mori poll conducted earlier this year, which revealed that 83 per cent of people surveyed know the term but did not understand what it stood for.

Meanwhile, one in 20 of those questioned had never heard of the term.

Ms Regan said: "In the current economic climate, legal aid is more vital than ever. Last year, it helped over two million people with legal problems such as debt, housing, welfare benefits and divorce."

That number is rising as a result of the ongoing recession, she added.

Last month, the government axed a timetable for the implementation of rules which would see law firms bid for criminal legal aid work.
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06/08/2009 14:45

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