PENINSULA Community Legal Centre’s Street Law project is continuing its mission despite the impact of COVID-19 restrictions and amid concerns its money will dry up at the end of the year.
The van delivering free legal services, free coffee and material aid will be back on the road at the end of this month.
The Street Law philosophy is to deliver free legal services when and where its clients need them.
Discussing legal issues in this environment is comforting to those who, apart from needing legal assistance, have urgent material needs, the project’s street lawyer Joe Oliver said.
“The service is a matter of principle, a duty of care – rather than being performed solely for remuneration. It’s becoming increasingly relevant and necessary with the increasing need for community legal services.”
Mr Oliver says COVID-19 had exacerbated inequality in the community, with more people with financial and legal problems and more who cannot afford a lawyer.
“We aim to provide clients with a holistic service that includes refreshments, legal health checks, advice and referrals,” he said.
“We also have a community worker who can provide connections to non-legal services over issues, such as housing, and a wide array of social issues.”
To find out the Street Law coffee van’s schedule call the centre on 9783 3600 or visit pclc.org.au
First published in the Mornington News – 19 October 2021
