SINGAPORE – People with special needs or mental health conditions can find help for legal matters at a dedicated law centre in Geylang Serai.

The Inclusive Justice Law Centre’s first touchpoint started operations in July at the MINDS Community Hub, which serves individuals with intellectual disabilities.

A community lawyer and a programme coordinator at the centre work with other social service professionals to assist individuals in need. Some may run into trouble when their behaviour is misunderstood by others, while others struggle to navigate the justice system.

The law charity behind the centre, Pro Bono SG, is also in talks with about 20 organisations to understand their needs and select other partner sites, bringing legal aid to places frequently visited by these individuals.

Pro Bono SG chairman Dinesh Dhillon announced the law centre’s first touchpoint at the organisation’s annual awards ceremony at Fullerton Hotel on July 21.

The law centre was launched in March amid a broader push for inclusive justice in Singapore, including the formation of a task force in January to review gaps in support for people with invisible disabilities within the criminal justice system.

This includes accused persons and victims of crime, who may have conditions such as psychosis, schizophrenia, autism and intellectual disabilities.

The centre is supported by the Rao Family Foundation, which committed more than $700,000 to fund its two years of operations.

Those who need ...