East Greenwich Legal Advice Clinic (EGLAC) provides free legal advice on a wide range of issues to people living in South East London who are unable to pay for legal advice.
Volunteering opportunity
EGLAC is currently looking for solicitors to provide free legal advice on housing matters, either at the fortnightly evening clinic in East Greenwich, or remotely by email, telephone or Zoom.
Time commitment
Advisers at EGLAC usually volunteer around six to eight evenings per year on a rota agreed in advance, typically meeting with 1-2 clients for pre-booked 45-minute appointments between 7pm and 8.45pm on alternate Wednesday evenings. Appointments held remotely can be arranged for a mutually-convenient time.
Benefits for volunteers
This is an opportunity for solicitors to use their valuable housing law skills and experience in new ways to help vulnerable people who would not otherwise have access to legal advice. Pro bono experience makes a CV more interesting to potential employers, and making a contribution to the community can lead to various health and psychological benefits, including a renewed sense of purpose.
Person specification
EGLAC is looking for solicitors with experience in housing (local authority and housing association tenants as well as private tenants). Solicitors will need a valid Practising Certificate but all advice given through the clinic is covered by the clinic's professional indemnity insurance.
Application process
Please contact Emma Martin at emmam@eglac.org.uk with a CV and covering letter explaining why you are interested in volunteering for EGLAC. Emma will then contact you to arrange an online appointment to discuss the role in more detail.