Greater Manchester Law Centre’s opening celebratory event in Moss Side was a major success.
The celebratory event, which was held on Saturday 11 February, gained huge support from members of the local community. Over 500 hundred people attended the opening of Moss Side’s new Law Centre.
The event was attended by Michael Mansfield QC and actress, Maxine Peake. Human Rights lawyer, Mansfield, is one of the founders of the law centre movement.
Seven of nine law centres in Greater Manchester have been shut after facing cuts of £350m to legal aid. Following these changes, people access less funding and for fewer types of civil proceedings.
Mansfield said the opening of the new Law Centre is a great way to stand up against the cuts. It’s a way to say “we’re not going to allow this to happen, we want proper public funding”.
Bolton actress and social activist, Maxine Peake, said it is “so important” that there are “places like this”. She said “access to free legal advice is as important as access to healthcare”.
The Law Centre’s building was founded in October 2016 with the help of a generous charitable trust grant. Free legal advice services are provided by volunteers and solicitors.
The law centre is “grateful for all the generous support” they have received so far. The centre now needs “all the help” to make it last.
After the official opening, a party was held at the West Indian Sports and Social Club in Moss Side. The party was attended by hundreds of people from the local community. Guests included, MP Kate Green and local councillors Mahadi Sharif, Emily Rowles, and Amina Lone.
Entertainment was provided by Holy Name RC Primary School’s Steel Band. Guests were also entertainment by DJ Kemoy and the Woman Asylum Seekers Together choir. There were also activities for children.
The new law centre is located within the heart of the Moss Side community on Princess Road.
Original article: http://thenubiantimes.com/greater-manchester-law-centre-celebrates-opening/
