From the Publisher
“A timely and vital exposé of the pressures exerted upon our justice system by a decade of political neglect, giving a much-needed voice to those who, as a result, have found themselves cut off from justice.” The Secret Barrister
“The effects of COVID-19 have increased unemployment, poverty and evictions. Those without means need support to access justice. But this timely book shows there is no true equality of arms.” Penelope Gibbs, Transform Justice
“Successive governments have been keen to emasculate challenge, and suppress the impoverished. Long before austerity, long before COVID-19, right up to the 2021 Budget. No mention of justice, let alone provision. This book has the history, has the contemporary narrative. It is the voice missing from the empty rhetoric of politicians and gives a stark measure of a society without due process.” Michael Mansfield QC
“A much-needed addition to the literature on the devastation of austerity in the UK. This book sheds light on one of the most important – yet least highlighted – aspects of how austerity policies shattered lives and vital safeguards in our society: access to justice in the civil and family courts for people without means.” Mary O'Hara, author and journalist
“A journey through, and call-to-arms for, austerity Britain, where access to justice in housing, food, benefits, the right to remain and family life is denied through poverty and inequality – and by design.” Steve Tombs, The Open University
“A valuable contribution to debates on access to justice beyond academia with an interesting and engaging style of vignettes to tell a bigger story.” Lucy Welsh, University of Sussex
“This book should be a call to arms. If you are a tribune of the people who has ever poured scorn on “activist lawyers”, I dare you to read this. If you are a lawyer or even a concerned citizen who has never felt comfortable with the “activist” tag, it may just tempt you to reconsider.” Baroness Shami Chakrabarti
“This important book chronicles the struggles of those excluded from the justice system and the difficulties of the professionals still trying to help. It issues a powerful case for change.” Hannah Quirk, King's College, London
