On-line Advice
The Social Welfare Network (SWN), is a not for profit Community Interest Company (CIC). It was set-up by Marlan Higgins of Legal Advice Direct Solicitors, LAD-Solicitors based in Witney, Oxfordshire, to develop a network of agencies committed to increase access to advice for some of the most vulnerable people in our communities.

As a solicitor Marlan has started with making legal advice freely available via a web cam service that is being piloted in several family centres around Oxfordshire. The centres are connected via the Social Welfare Network to solicitors who can provide answers to questions in various areas of law. Appointments can be made with the centre to speak to an adviser at LAD-Solicitors. In some cases Legal Aid is available to the client.

It is hoped that the Social Welfare Network will expand to include advisers from other agencies eg Women’s Aid and Youth Projects. All the people who give advice will register with the Social Welfare Network and be given user names and passwords so that the system is not open to mis-use.

Using a web cam service enables people to get legal advice near to where they live, in a setting they are familiar with. This has huge advantages for families with children, older people and those with disabilities, those experiencing domestic violence, and those who live in rural areas.

You may wish to become part of the Social Welfare Network. For further information or to register please visit: Social Welfare Network