Women’s Policy Group raises grave concerns over proposed Legal Aid reforms
01 June 2026 - The WRDA led Women’s Policy Group Northern Ireland (WPG) has today published its response to the Department of Justice’s consultation on the Legal Aid Engagement Process, warning that proposed reforms could significantly restrict access to justice for women and marginalised groups.
While welcoming the Department’s intention to review the legal aid system and ensure effective use of public funds, the WPG has expressed serious concerns that several of the proposed changes risk undermining protections for those most in need. The WPG, a coalition of women’s sector organisations and policy experts convened by the Women’s Resource and Development Agency (WRDA), highlighted the importance of maintaining equitable access to justice, particularly for survivors of domestic and sexual abuse.
Concerns for survivors and children
The WPG cautioned against proposals that could limit access to legal aid in family law cases under Article 8 of the Children (NI) Order 1995. They warned that restrictions on repeat applications could delay vital court interventions needed to safeguard children. The group also raised concerns that legal processes are frequently used as a means of continuing abuse after a relationship has ended, placing further strain on survivors. Legal aid is often essential for survivors seeking to protect themselves and their children. Any reforms must ensure that these protections are not weakened.
Barriers to challenging public decisions
The WPG strongly opposed proposals to restrict legal aid for judicial review proceedings, arguing that such measures could prevent individuals from holding public authorities to account. The group emphasised that many cases do not proceed beyond early stages because public bodies rectify issues once challenged, demonstrating the effectiveness of judicial review rather than its misuse. Restricting access at early stages risks silencing legitimate challenges and undermining accountability.
Threats to public interest litigation
The response also outlines concerns that limiting legal aid for public interest litigation would disproportionately impact civil society organisations, many of which already operate under resource constraints. The WPG stressed that organisations such as NGOs, despite playing a vital role in advancing rights, do not have the capacity to replace legal aid provision. Removing legal aid for public interest cases would lead to a significant loss of access to justice, particularly for marginalised communities.
Call for meaningful engagement
The WPG is calling on the Department of Justice to engage more closely with women’s organisations and wider civil society before progressing any reforms.
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Notes to editors:
The WRDA led Women’s Policy Group (WPG) is a coalition of women’s organisations, trade unions, NGOs and individuals working to advance gender equality in Northern Ireland through an intersectional feminist approach.
Enquiries:
Elaine Crory, Women’s Sector Lobbyist, elaine.crory@wrda.net
Meghan Hoyt, Policy Assistant, meghan.hoyt@wrda.net