Following on from my visit to South Law Centre in August I was invited to attend an employment law clinic outreach session at Southwark Citizens Advice run by solicitor Claire Cruise. Through the Southwark Legal Advice Network, they can help those who have suffered with unfair dismissal, discrimination in the work place, not being paid the minimum wage, not receiving equal pay, and being expected to work longer hours than legal or not receiving their legally entitled breaks.

Despite the progress we have made as a society these issues are still a reality for many. I am hugely grateful for the work of the Southwark Legal Advice Network. Here in Bermondsey and Old Southwark we are fortunate enough to still have this fantastic service. Since 2014 the number of Law Centres across the country has dropped by half, from 94 to 47.

Right now, work place rights are secured under EU law but deal or no deal, leaving the European Union puts these at risk. The work carried out by organisation such as the Southwark Legal Advice Network will only become more important and it is crucial that this legal aid is properly funded.

On my visit I also met with the Southwark Citizens Advice team and I was delighted to hear they are extending their Southwark operation and will soon have a new bureau open on Westmoreland Road. Here they will help thousands of people where sadly the demand growing. For more information on the brilliant services they provide please visit https://www.citizensadvicesouthwark.org.uk & https://www.southwarkadvice.org.uk