Norfolk Community Law Service (NCLS) has marked its 40th anniversary year by moving into larger offices in the heart of Norwich, following a sustained rise in demand for its free legal advice and support services.
The charity has relocated from its former base in Prince of Wales Road to 4 Duke Street, the former headquarters of Liftshare and before that Eastern Electricity. The new space, once famous for its quirky indoor slide, has been adapted to create a more practical working environment for the organisation’s 38 staff and 170 volunteers.
Chief Executive David Powles said the move reflects both the growth of Norfolk Community Law Service and the continuing challenges faced by people across the county. “Demand for our services continues to grow as an increasing number of people are left without access to the type of support and representation which should be their right,” he explained.
“We are seeing more people face problems with debt, domestic abuse, family issues, immigration, employment and welfare benefit refusal, but fewer people with the money to pay for help or able to access Legal Aid. At the same time, the charity sector faces reduced public sector funding and a grant landscape which is ever more competitive.”
Despite those challenges, Mr Powles emphasised that NCLS remains committed to improving both client experience and working conditions for staff and volunteers.
“Being a charity should not mean we can’t be aspirational in wanting to look after our team and clients, and I am delighted that we now have an office which allows our team of staff and volunteers to do their best work in more comfortable surroundings.
“The public areas are also more suiting the needs of the 4,500 people we help every year.”
The official opening of the new office was attended by more than 100 guests, with Lady Pippa Dannatt, the Lord Lieutenant of Norfolk, and Bill Armstrong, President of NCLS, as guests of honour.
In his welcome speech, Mr Powles reflected on the significance of the move in the organisation’s 40th anniversary year. He also highlighted the charity’s ongoing recruitment drive for new trustees, encouraging members of the public to explore opportunities to contribute to NCLS’ future.
Volunteers, who play a vital role in delivering the service, have already noticed the benefits of the new space.
Chidimma Oguachuba, a third-year law student and volunteer, said: “I wanted to volunteer because I wanted to be able to provide help for people who are not privileged enough to seek support from other places.
“The new NCLS office has been a great space to volunteer in, as it has been spacious enough to fit volunteers from other services to work together, and it does not feel too crowded. The waiting room is also a highlight, as it has a welcoming feel to it.”
Since its founding in 1985, Norfolk Community Law Service has been dedicated to providing access to justice for disadvantaged groups. The services it offers are free, independent and confidential.
The organisations aim is to support those unable to afford legal advice, including groups such as those with disabilities, long-term health conditions, migrant workers, offenders and ex-offenders.
The charity offers a wide range of support including free initial legal advice, debt and welfare benefits advice, immigration assistance, domestic abuse legal support, family court guidance and mediation for Norwich City Council housing tenants. Interpreters are available for clients who need them, ensuring services remain inclusive and accessible.
The human impact of this work is illustrated by the many individuals who have been helped over the years.
One woman in her 60s, struggling with rent arrears and caring responsibilities, was supported to have her debts written off, freeing her from the risk of losing her home. Another client, a mother in distress after her ex-partner took her child without consent, was guided through the court process with the help of an NCLS McKenzie Friend, ultimately regaining custody and securing an order of no contact from her ex-partner.
For others, the service has been a lifeline in moments of despair. One man, burdened with over £7,000 of debt and worsening mental health, received support from NCLS to negotiate with creditors and his GP, leading to his debts being written off and the chance of a fresh start.
As it enters its fifth decade, Norfolk Community Law Service faces an uncertain financial landscape but continues to reaffirm its mission of providing access to justice for all.
With its expanded office space, dedicated staff and volunteers, and a commitment to meeting growing community needs, the charity says it will remain a vital part of Norfolk’s social fabric for years to come.
“Every day, we help people move through and out the other side of challenging, stressful situations,” Mr Powles said. “The impact of our work cannot be underestimated — whether it’s helping someone secure their right to stay in the UK, recover from debt, or escape an abusive relationship.
“This is what we do, and what we will keep doing, because we believe in social justice for all.”
