LawWorks welcomes new Chief Executive
LawWorks is delighted to announce the appointment of Martin Barnes as its new Chief Executive. Martin takes up the post after Easter and will replace Nick Gallagher who completes his six-month tenure as interim CEO.
Martin comes to LawWorks with extensive and varied experience in the charitable sector and has considerable experience of leading charities. After passing the Bar Exam and following experience in the advice sector (including at a Citizens Advice Bureau), he subsequently spent over 5 years as CEO of the Child Poverty Action Group and a further 10 years as CEO of Drugscope until December 2013.
Martin said, ‘I am passionate about access to justice for all and excited to have the opportunity to lead LawWorks. LawWorks has a pivotal role in connecting pro bono lawyers with people in need of legal advice who cannot afford a lawyer, and the not-for-profit organisations and groups which support them. I am excited about the development of innovative programmes such as Secondary Specialisation and the Litigants in Person Strategy, which aim to provide more in-depth support to those in need. I am looking forward to working with LawWorks members, and am keen to increase our reach and support through further regional development.’
Paul Newdick, Chair of LawWorks, welcomed Martin’s appointment, ‘This is a vital time for LawWorks as we put into operation our new three year strategic plan to increase the reach, impact and efficiency of pro bono legal delivery to people and community groups in need in England & Wales. We are thrilled to have secured the depth of experience and background, both in the advice sector and in charity management, that Martin brings. The Board and staff of LawWorks are really looking forward to working with him to achieve our goals in this changing legal landscape.’
Ends
Notes to editors
- LawWorks is a National Charity working in England and Wales to connect volunteer lawyers both with people in need of legal advice, who are not eligible for legal aid and cannot afford to pay, and with the not for profit organisations that support them.
- LawWorks believes in the power of pro bono legal advice to improve the lives of people in need.
- For additional information about LawWorks visit www.lawworks.org.uk.
Contact:
Valerie Hudson t: 020 7092 3952 e: valerie.hudson@lawworks.org.uk