Bristol Law Centre recognised with national Legal Aid award

Bristol Law Centre has been named Legal Aid Firm/Not-for-Profit Agency of the Year at the 2026 Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year Awards (LALYs), recognising the organisation's outstanding contribution to improving access to justice across the South West. Bristol Law Centre secured £1m in housing, benefits and employment claim outcomes for clients in 2025.

Organised by the Legal Aid Practitioners Group (LAPG), the LALYs are the only national awards dedicated to celebrating the achievements of legal aid lawyers and organisations working on the front line of social justice.

Founded almost 50 years ago, Bristol Law Centre provides free legal advice, representation and support to people facing issues including housing problems, homelessness, employment disputes, welfare benefits, discrimination and asylum matters. The charity helps more than 1,500 people each year access the justice system and supports thousands more through advice, referrals and signposting services.

The award recognises both the impact of the organisation's work and its continuing commitment to ensuring that people can access legal advice regardless of their circumstances. The Law Centres Network added: “In the last few years, Bristol Law Centre has built on its proud history with renewed ambition. It has grown its team, expanded its reach and responded to changing community needs. It is an integral part of the city’s social safety net.”

ARAG has developed a close relationship with Bristol Law Centre in recent years through fundraising activities, volunteering initiatives and support for the charity's wider access to justice mission. Two ARAG Law partners, Allison Lewis and William Ellerton, also serve as trustees of the organisation.

Commenting on the award, William Ellerton, Partner at ARAG Law and trustee of Bristol Law Centre, said:

Commenting on the award, William Ellerton, Partner at ARAG Law and trustee of Bristol Law Centre, said:

ARAG is delighted to continue its strong ties with Bristol Law Centre, which shares ARAG's mission of access to justice for all. Earlier in July, I had the privilege of attending the Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year Awards, where Bristol Law Centre won Legal Aid Firm/Not-for-Profit Agency of the Year. It was fantastic to see the organisation recognised nationally for the vital work it carries out every day.

The achievement comes at a time when legal aid providers continue to play a crucial role in helping individuals, families and communities navigate some of the most challenging issues they face. The award highlights the significant contribution organisations such as Bristol Law Centre make in ensuring access to justice remains available to those who need it most.
Visit www.bristollawcentre.org.uk to learn more about their award-winning work.