Page 10 - Town & Around - March 2026

10 Town & Around March 2026 Tel: 01485 540620 email: editor@townandaround.net
Hayes + Storr launches legal aid service to support families involved with
children’s services
ayes + Storr Solicitors has launched a ensuring their legal rights are protected.” aid ensures that people are able to take part in
new legal aid service to support In cases where concerns escalate, local the process properly, with specialist advice
Hparents, grandparents, and family authorities may begin pre-proceedings, and representation, regardless of their
members when Children’s Services become sometimes referred to as PLO (Public Law financial circumstances.”
involved with their children. Outline) meetings. These meetings are
intended to address concerns before court
action is considered. Parents invited to attend
are automatically entitled to legal aid,
regardless of income, allowing them to
receive independent legal advice and
representation.
“Having legal support at the pre-
proceedings stage can help families
understand expectations and work towards
positive outcomes, with court proceedings
avoided wherever possible.” Says Carly
Sullivan.
Carly Sullivan, Head of Children Law Where matters do proceed to court, Hayes
+ Storr provides representation throughout Rob Colwell, Director and
The service is led by Carly Sullivan, Head care proceedings, which may arise where Head of Family Services
of Children Law, who represents families in local authorities believe children are at risk of
child protection matters, pre-proceedings significant harm. Legal aid funding covers Carly Sullivan is a member of the Law
meetings and care proceedings in the Family advice, preparation of court documents and Society Children Panel, which recognises
Court. representation at hearings for parents, solicitors with specialist expertise in children
“Many people come to us not knowing grandparents and others with parental law. The firm says its approach is focused on
what Children’s Services involvement responsibility. clarity, proportionality and child welfare,
actually means,” she said. “There is often a Rob Colwell, Director and Head of Family supporting families through what can be a
lack of clear information at an early stage. My Services at Hayes + Storr, said the service complex and unfamiliar legal system.
role is to explain the process carefully, outline reflects the firm’s focus on access to justice. If children in your care are at risk, call
the different stages, and help families engage “Care proceedings can have profound and Hayes + Storr on 01328 863231 and ask to
constructively with professionals while long-lasting consequences for families. Legal speak to the Family Services team.