"Whether its time or money there are various ways you can get involved."
Geraldine Stephens
Manchester lawyer Geraldine Stephens is one of a handful of lawyers across the city who are coming together to support fellow legal professionals who fall on hard times.
Geraldine has signed up as a volunteer for SBA – The Solicitors’ Charity and is encouraging her colleagues to do the same.
A commercial litigation solicitor at Clarke Willmott LLP and president of the Trafford Law Society, Geraldine says solicitors are not invulnerable to hard times.
She said: “Life’s challenges can happen to everyone and legal professionals are no exception.
“I am proud to give my time to such a worthy cause. It helps solicitors - and their dependants - to get back on their feet through financial support. This assistance pays for items that many of us take for granted including household repairs, groceries and accommodation. Those who are out of work can also get their careers back on track through a coaching service to boost their job search.
“Individuals who reach out for assistance usually have money struggles due to issues like accidents, illnesses, divorce and job losses. This goes to show that hardship can affect us all, regardless of where we are in our careers.”
In addition to the efforts of volunteers like Geraldine, firms and individuals from all over town make a huge impact via donations and even offer unclaimed client balances to turn the lives around for those who are in need.
Geraldine is encouraging other lawyers in the city to volunteer and help fundraise for the cause. She is also taking part in next month’s Manchester Legal Walk – a 10km walk which raises funds for free legal advice centres in the area.
Geraldine and other SBA members will be wearing pink wigs at the event so anyone interested in finding out more can speak to them.
She continued: “Whether it’s time or money there are various ways you can get involved.
“Having been involved in a number of cases, I can vouch that volunteering is very rewarding. I have visited applicants and have seen first-hand just how difficult their lives are. Knowing you’re doing your part in making such a positive change is really motivating.”
To find out more about the SBA visit https://www.sba.org.uk/ and to sign up for the Manchester Legal Walk visit http://www.nwlst.org.uk/manchester-legal-walk.html
Clarke Willmott is a national law firm with offices in Bristol, Birmingham, Cardiff, London, Manchester, Southampton and Taunton.
For more information visit www.clarkewillmott.com
