A brief primer...

The Ministry of Justice has seen deeper cuts than any other government department in the last decade. The budget for legal aid has been cut by more than 40%.

Against this backdrop, charities like the Free Representation Unit ("FRU") have become vital sources of support for even more people. FRU provides legal advice, case preparation and advocacy support predominantly to those with legal problems in the fields of employment and social security, and who do not receive any legal aid.

But for FRU, the majority of its clients would be forced to conduct their own proceedings, including carrying out legal research and making  submissions before a judge in court - a daunting challenge, even for an aspiring barrister.

FRU's services are free of charge, but they depend on donations. I'm not asking you to ride 100 miles - I'm on that - but please give something if you can.

Thank you.