Interview under caution: useful contacts
Advice UK advice centres
Advice UK is a support network for independent advice centres. Some of these centres give general information and advice on a range of subjects whilst others specialise in particular areas. Independent advice centres may be able to help you prepare for the interview, and in some cases may be able to send an adviser with you. You can find out whether there is an Advice UK advice centre near you by telephoning 020 7469 5700 or searching on the website using the link at the right of this page.
Citizens Advice Bureaux (CAB)
Citizens Advice Bureaux help people resolve their legal, money and other problems by providing free information and advice. Local CABs may be able to help you prepare for an interview and in some cases may be able to send an adviser with you. You can find your local CAB by visiting their website (see the link on right) or looking under ‘Citizens Advice Bureaux’ in The Phone Book.
Community Legal Advice
Community Legal Advice is a free and confidential advice service paid for by legal aid. If you live on a low income or benefits, they may be able to help you prepare for your interview over the telephone. Through their website (see link) and helpline you can also get contact details of local advice services (including solicitors) who hold the CLS Quality Mark. Telephone: 0845 345 4 345
Law Centres
Law Centres specialise in solving a range of legal problems and offer a free service to people who cannot afford a private solicitor. They usually only help people who live or work in their area. A Law Centre may be able to help you prepare for an interview under caution and may be able to represent you at the interview. You can find out whether there is a Law Centre near you by visiting their website - see the link on the right of this page.
The Law Society
The Law Society is the organisation that represents solicitors in England and Wales. You can search for details of local solicitors at www.solicitors-online.com or phone 0870 606 2555. If you telephone explain to the operator that you are looking for a solicitor with experience of interviews under caution.
Local council welfare rights services
Some councils run welfare rights services. They can offer advice and representation on a range of welfare benefits issues. Contact your local council to see if it has a welfare rights service (see link on right).
