Justice Hub commended for virtual vacation scheme

Supported by the Attorney General, the LawWorks Student Pro Bono awards celebrate the best pro bono activities undertaken by law students and law schools and the positive impact on those assisted.

Whilst law schools and students across the country have continued to provide access to justice under the restrictions of COVID-19, special consideration was given to nominations that have been responsive to the issues and legal needs presented by the pandemic.

The Justice Hub was Highly Commended in the category ‘Best New Pro Bono Activity’ for their virtual vacation scheme, which saw 40 law students dedicate their free time to volunteer to help those affected by the coronavirus pandemic in summer 2020.

Students who took part in the scheme produced short information videos, aimed at advising the public in key legal areas that were impacted by the pandemic, such as housing, employment law and child arrangement.

The programme was so successful that the students involved also presented a further webinar for carers of people living with dementia, which was attended by over 100 people and is available online.

Justice Hub Director, Dr Phil Drake, said: “This is fantastic news and testament to the innovation, hard work and collaboration of our students, volunteer lawyers, video producer, academics and professional services staff.”

The winners were announced in an online awards ceremony, taking place on the 12 May 2021.