I write to you at the end of my first week as President. Taking on this role is an immense honour.

Thank you for all the support and good wishes. I look forward to working with you all.

Yesterday marked the announcement of a welcome first step to tackle the criminal legal aid crisis. See - https://www.gov.uk/government/news/24-million-boost-for-criminal-legal-aid-to-support-most-vulnerable

As we all know, the 2021 Bellamy Review recommended a minimum 15% fee uplift, notwithstanding this we received only 9%.  In a report published yesterday https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/criminal-legal-aid-advisory-board-claab-annual-report-2024 , the Criminal Legal Aid Board highlighted the crisis facing the sector and said the effect of delay in implementing the review’s recommendations was further exacerbated by inflation and rises in the cost of living, to the extent that significant extra cash is now required to achieve the aims of the 2021 review. The board called for 'substantial immediate funding' above the 15% recommended by the 2021 review.

It is heartening that there has been recognition of the crucial role criminal legal aid solicitors play in our justice system and that this will be the first step to support the sustainability of the criminal legal aid sector.

Recently, over 100 firm owners signed an open letter to the Justice Secretary concerning the 2025 Contract, warning the government not to mistake their submitting applications for the new legal aid contract for an intention actually to sign it. There is to be an online follow up meeting for firm owners on 27^th November. If you are a firm owner and not aware, but wish to support the approach please email Criminal Legal Aid Firms criminallegalaidfirms@gmail.com

In other news, an exciting new Pilot launched this week aimed at ensuring children receive specialist support from police custody staff and child specialist legal representation from the point of their arrival at the police station.

More information can be found here - https://www.london.gov.uk/programmes-strategies/mayors-office-policing-and-crime-mopac/mopac-funded-services/child-first-custody-training-and-research-pilot

The investment in Youth Court legal aid is hugely positive. Children are the most vulnerable members of our society and we look forward to the findings of the Pilot. Through holistic support and diversion away from the criminal justice system the trajectory of so many lives can be changed. The Ministry of Justice (MOJ) Legal Aid Policy Unit and the Legal Aid Agency (LAA) are aware of the Pilot and will review the findings.

Whilst there is still a way to go, yesterday’s announcement is a promising sign and we look forward to a fresh approach by the new Lord Chancellor. The LCCSA committee will continue to lobby the Government to remedy the recruitment and retention crisis facing our beloved profession.

Casey Jenkins

President LCCSA