Free Representation Unit
The FRU trains volunteers to represent clients in legal hearings. We aim to prevent poverty by enabling clients to obtain their legal rights. Legal aid is not available and our clients cannot afford to pay for representation. We operate in Greater London, the home counties and the east midlands. Our volunteers are aspiring lawyers or qualified lawyers who give their time for free.
Activities & Mission
The FRU trains volunteers to represent clients in legal hearings. We aim to prevent poverty by enabling clients to obtain their legal rights. Legal aid is not available and our clients cannot afford to pay for representation. We operate in Greater London, the home counties and the east midlands. Our volunteers are aspiring lawyers or qualified lawyers who give their time for free.
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Where this charity is registered to operate, as self-declared to the Charity Commission. These are regulatory classifications, not a list of active programmes, and don't necessarily indicate fundraising activity in each location.
Region
Financial Information
Financial Efficiency
Latest Financial Breakdown
Income Sources
Expenditure Categories
Financial Trend
Annual Returns
As filed with the Charity Commission for England and Wales. Most recent filing covers the financial year ending 2025.
One or more years show a significant change in income (over ±100%) compared with the prior year. This usually reflects a merger, transfer of activities, restated accounts, or a one-off legacy — not necessarily a real change in operating scale. See the methodology for context.
| Financial Year | Income | Expenditure | Charitable Spending | Net Assets | Reserves | Staff |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | £553,170 | £541,198 | £518,588 | £101,652 | £58,734 | 11 / 350 |
| 2024 | £460,149 | £533,356 | 0 / 300 | |||
| 2023 | £496,710 | £505,139 | 0 / 300 | |||
| 2022 | £206,428 | £204,855 | 0 / 300 |
Staff column shows: Employees / Volunteers
Frequently asked questions about Free Representation Unit
What does Free Representation Unit do?
The FRU trains volunteers to represent clients in legal hearings. We aim to prevent poverty by enabling clients to obtain their legal rights. Legal aid is not available and our clients cannot afford to pay for representation. We operate in Greater London, the home counties and the east midlands. Our volunteers are aspiring lawyers or qualified lawyers who give their time for free.
How much income did Free Representation Unit report in 2025?
Free Representation Unit reported total income of £553k and reported expenditure of £541k for the financial year ending 2025, based on the most recent annual return filed with the Charity Commission.
When was Free Representation Unit registered as a charity?
Free Representation Unit was registered with the Charity Commission for England and Wales on 28 May 2019 as charity number 1183592. It has been registered for 7 years.
Who runs Free Representation Unit?
Free Representation Unit is governed by a board of 11 trustees. Trustees are legally responsible for the charity's governance and are listed in full on its profile.
Where does Free Representation Unit operate?
Free Representation Unit operates in England And Wales, as recorded in its Charity Commission filing.
Is Free Representation Unit a registered charity?
Yes — Free Representation Unit is a registered charity in England and Wales, charity number 1183592.
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1st Floor West
3 Field Court
Gray's Inn
LONDON
WC1R 5EF
Registry Information
Trustees
Data & trust
- Register data refreshed
- 13 October 2026
- Methodology
- How metrics are calculated