Law Clinic participates in innovative ‘Free Advice for Our Times’ event

The Law Clinic recently took part in an exciting event at The Fruitmarket Gallery in Edinburgh entitled ‘Free Advice for Our Times’.

The event comprised a day of free advice and information, allowing people to find out more about accessing their legal rights in a welcoming, collaborative environment. Several lawyers, charities and advice organisations attended the event. This included Shelter Scotland, The Rock Trust CHAI Edinburgh, Cyrenians and One Day Without Us.

This event ran alongside an exhibition of artwork by award-winning Glasgow artist, Jacqueline Donachie. The event aimed to combine practical advice with an artistic exploration into the way we support ourselves in society, a common theme in Donachie’s work.

As part of this event, students from the Law Clinic, Karen Yuill and Michelle Young, gave a presentation outlining what services law clinics across Scotland provide and explaining the breadth of legal issues we can assist with.  Acting Director, Kate Laverty, who attended the event commented:

“I am delighted that the Law Clinic was invited to participate in this event and explain the fantastic work of law clinics across the country. It was also great to speak to the number of organisations represented at the event doing fantastic work to tackle a number of social issues. It is heart-warming to see the number of services being provided across Scotland to help those in our society who really need it the most.”

A team of our student advisors then presented a video sampling our new initiative that will assist lay representatives in the Employment Tribunal.  A team of students are currently researching, developing, and creating videos outlining Employment Tribunal procedures. These will be made available as an online resource and will benefit several Employment Tribunal claimants who cannot afford a solicitor and face the daunting prospect of representing themselves.

This initiative is kindly supported by the University of Strathclyde Alumni Fund. The Alumni Fund donations are provided by graduates and friends of the University. This money is used to create opportunities for students across the University, including the opportunity to use their skills and knowledge to benefit others.

Student Advisor, Eilidh Campbell, who also attended the event said:

“This event was a great opportunity to network with organisations that share our values and aims. In particular, we met with organisations that we haven’t worked with before and who can provide additional services to our clients. This will enable us to provide better support to clients in future, especially with problems that are better dealt with by specialist, targeted organisations.”