At the National Centre for Domestic Violence (NCDV), our purpose is simple but urgent: to provide a service that helps victims and survivors obtain protection through the courts. Every day, we hear from people who are frightened, isolated, and unsure of where to turn.
Thanks to our incredible pro bono team and pro bono panel firms, we can give them hope, safety, and the chance to rebuild their lives. In the last 12 months (September to August) we have supported 4,516 litigants in person, victims who do not meet the criteria for free legal aid or can’t afford a private solicitor.
What We Do
At NCDV we offer a free, fast emergency injunction service to those at risk of all forms of domestic abuse regardless of their financial situation, ethnicity, gender or sexuality. Our team work with survivors to secure protective injunctions – such as Non-Molestation and Occupation Orders.
We believe that everyone has the right to be safe, no regardless of their circumstances, background, or financial situation.
Why Pro Bono Support Matters
Many survivors face huge barriers when seeking protection: financial hardship, emotional trauma, or simply not knowing where to start. The law can feel overwhelming at the very moment when they are most vulnerable and if they cannot find a legal aid solicitor or pay for a private solicitor, they remain vulnerable.
This is why NCDV was created 23 years ago, to help those who “fell between the cracks” and that is why NCDV exists today. For those who do not have a solicitor and have the merits for a non molestation order (under the Family Law Act) we speak to each one. We offer a warm hand hold through the decision-making process. What they choose to do is up to them and we support their choices without pressure or judgement, providing a safe environment to share their journey through the witness statement. We can provide the relevant additional court paperwork for those who wish to take the additional step of obtaining an order themselves. For others, our supportive approach is sufficient, and they feel they have been listened to and understood. This can change lives as much as obtaining an order.
We can further empower and safeguard people by making them aware of services that can support their risks, needs, and long-term recovery. Without our service, without our guidance, many navigate the court system by themselves. While many are confident and successful, others may need that extra little bit of support.
Celebrating Pro Bono Week
Each year we employ 12 interns to support the pro bono team. They are all studying for a law degree and are in their placement year. This week we want to recognise those who are currently carrying out their placement with us, and all those out there who have worked in our pro bono team over the last 23 years. A big shout out to you and thank you, we could not do this without you.
We continue to recruit and train future law students who have the potential to become professionals in the field of domestic abuse and to support this vital service.
How You Can Help
Legal professionals: If your firm is interested in supporting the work we do, please get in contact.
Community members: You can help too – by sharing our services, supporting our work, or simply spreading the word that no one needs to face abuse alone.
Together, We Make a Difference
Pro Bono Week reminds us that kindness, solidarity, and action can transform lives. At NCDV, we are deeply grateful to everyone who stands with us, because together, we are building a future where safety and justice are not privileges, but rights for all.
If you or someone you know needs urgent help, please reach out. We are here. You are not alone.