News

Law Centre NI launches Sanctuary Services Map to improve access to support across Belfast

Law Centre NI launches Sanctuary Services Map to improve access to support across Belfast

Stormont must deliver on racial equality legislation: Law Centre NI responds to TEO consultation on draft Framework on Race Relations

Law Centre NI has set out a critical response to the draft Framework for Race Relations and Delivery Plan 2026–28. While the Framework contains some positive commitments, it also includes serious shortcomings and notable omissions. If left unaddressed, these weaknesses risk undermining efforts to advance racial equality in Northern Ireland. Click here to read our critique and recommendations to TEO for strengthening racial equality in Northern Ireland.

Law Centre NI submits evidence to the Timms Review of Personal Independence Payment

Law Centre NI has submitted our response to the Timms Review of Personal Independence Payment, in which we have outlined a series of key considerations and recommendations.

A breakdown of the Social Security Appeal Statistics 2025-26

The Law Centre has renewed its call for the Department for Communities to publish data on an annual basis relating to social security appeals in Northern Ireland.

Law Centre NI welcomes the Social Security Advisory Committee

Today, Law Centre NI were delighted to welcome the Social Security Advisory Committee and colleagues from across the sector to our offices, to participate in the Committee’s roundtable discussion.

Law Centre NI responds to consultation on Enabling Access to Justice Division Legal Aid Engagement Process

Law Centre NI welcomes the Department of Justice’s engagement on legal aid reform in Northern Ireland and supports efforts to simplify the system, improve means-testing, and ensure long-term sustainability. However, it stresses that reforms must not undermine access to justice or the rule of law. LCNI supports thoughtful reform but urges a balanced approach that recognises legal aid as a fundamental pillar of a fair justice system.

Advice Changes Lives: PIP Appeal Success through Collaboration with Frontline Advice Services and Law Centre NI

A vulnerable client who initially received 0 points for both components of her PIP assessment successfully secured an ongoing Enhanced Rate award for both Daily Living and Mobility following collaboration between a local independent advice agency and Law Centre NI. Through coordinated evidence gathering, specialist legal representation, and tribunal advocacy, the client received nearly £14,000 in backdated payments, helping to clear significant rent arrears and improve financial stability. The case demonstrates the life-changing impact of partnership working between frontline advice agencies and our specialist legal support.

Inspiring the Next Generation: QUB Students Gain Hands-On Experience Through Law Centre NI Clinical Placement

Law Centre NI welcomed 18 final-year Queen’s University Belfast students to its 10-week Clinical Law Placement, offering hands-on experience across its Anti-Poverty and Migration Justice Projects. Students developed practical legal skills through casework, research, tribunal observation, and policy engagement, including a visit to Stormont to observe evidence being presented to the Northern Ireland Assembly. The placement reflects Law Centre NI’s commitment to promoting social justice careers and preparing the next generation of legal professionals.

Proposals for a new Independent Asylum Appeals Body: Law Centre NI responds to call for evidence.

Law Centre NI responds to proposals for a new Independent Asylum Appeals Body, to raise concerns about fairness, legal safeguards and access to justice.

Employment Tribunal Claims in Northern Ireland: Guide to drafting a Schedule of Loss

In this Guide, Law Centre NI provides information on how to complete a Schedule of Loss and the factors you should consider in calculating your financial loss for an Employment Tribunal claim.

Influencing Policy Makers

Support for Migrant Led Orgs

Law Centre NI responds to reports of “sham advisers” abusing the immigration system

The Law Centre condemns “sham advisers” who exploit migrants with fraudulent applications, stressing they are criminals—not legitimate professionals. While wrongdoing should be exposed, such cases are rare and shouldn’t overshadow the real risks faced by LGBTQI+ individuals and domestic abuse survivors, who often lack adequate protection.