https://www.slab.org.uk/faqs/do-i-have-to-have-a-solicitor-or-can-i-apply-and-then-look-for-a-solicitor-once-i-have-legal-aid/
You must have a solicitor to apply for legal aid. Legal aid is a means of paying your solicitor or counsel to act on your behalf.
The application must be submitted by a solicitor who is registered to provide criminal or civil legal assistance.