Shelter says eight of its offices could close because of cuts in legal aid

Campbell Robb, the charity’s chief executive, warns that local people will lose the advice they need on housing and homelessness

The housing and homelessness charity Shelter has warned that eight of its offices are at risk of closure because of government funding cuts.

It said that it faced 50 per cent cuts in the legal aid funding it received from the government for its face-to-face advice services. Offices at risk include those in Rotherham, Ashford in Kent, Milton Keynes and Gloucester.

Each office provides a range of services for those affected by homelessness, including advice on issues such as debt and benefits.

A spokeswoman for Shelter was unable to confirm how much funding it was losing, how many jobs could be at risk or how many offices it has in the UK. The charity had a turnover of £53.2m in 2010/11, according to figures on the Charity Commission website.

Campbell Robb, chief executive of Shelter, said: “If these services have to close as a result of cuts to legal aid, this will be a massive blow not only to our staff, but also to the people in the affected areas who will no longer be able to get face-to-face advice and support from Shelter.

“We will be doing all we can to ensure people around the country can still get help with their housing problems through our helpline and website.”