Suffolk Law Centre - training the next generation of legal caseworkers

I joined Suffolk Law Centre in November 2021 and it has been a great experience from day one. Suffolk Law Centre provides legal advice to individuals in the community in areas such as family, employment, housing and discrimination to the people of Suffolk and wider area. The variety in skill, knowledge and expertise of staff and volunteers is a testament to their commitment, compassion and heart for justice.

It has been admirable to observe the various ways in which staff members contribute their time and knowledge to ensure the smooth running of Suffolk Law Centre. It has been especially refreshing to see how staff are able to undertake complex casework and work to strict deadlines yet maintain an ambience that is light and friendly.

Having never previously worked in legal aid, I am especially grateful to the housing team for curating a wonderful environment in which I continue to develop my knowledge.

I have particularly enjoyed shadowing my colleague at the Housing Possession Court Duty Scheme at Bury St. Edmunds County Court on a couple of occasions. It has been a great opportunity to see my colleague defend clients in Hearings despite working to a tight deadline. On one occasion, my colleague represented a client in a mortgage repossession hearing which resulted in the hearing being adjourned and a favourable re-payment plan being put in place for the client’s arrears. I have recently been allocated a couple of cases under supervision and have enjoyed putting my learning into practice.

You cannot help but have a spirit of empathy and care when you encounter the staff and volunteers at Suffolk Law Centre and especially when you meet clients and hear their stories. I am glad to have joined the team here and become part of their mission to ensure that access to exceptional legal assistance is not limited.

Sabrina Thomas, Trainee Legal Aid Caseworker

Tel: 01473 408 111 Fax: 08723529201 web: www.iscre.org.uk

ISCRE 46a St Matthews St. Ipswich Suffolk IP1 3EP

(Suffolk Law Advice Clinics & Tackling Discrimination in the East)