Support Through Court
The University of Sheffield’s School of Law works in partnership with Support Through Court (STC) who provide free help to people facing court as litigants in person, who cannot afford vital legal services or access legal aid.
Every year, thousands of people in the UK face court alone. Cuts in legal aid and funding for advice agencies mean more people than ever have no choice but to represent themselves at a moment that could have life-changing outcomes. They may be facing divorce, seeking access to their children, defending or putting forward a money claim, or facing eviction from their home. Without legal representation, they can find themselves in a system that was not designed for them and with little or no support.
Support Through Court exists to reduce the disadvantage of people facing civil or family court without a lawyer. Going through the court can be incredibly complex and bewildering and Support Through Court offers both practical and emotional support to those facing court alone. The charity provides both in-person and remote support to empower people who feel that they have nowhere else to turn. It is an award-winning charity with offices across England and Wales, as well as a National Helpline and Online service. Support Through Court remains the only organisation providing this service.
The School of Law's Partnership with Support Through Court
The School of Law went into partnership with Support Through Court Sheffield in South Yorkshire, with volunteer spaces for students Wednesday to Friday during the working week. Students volunteer to provide support to STC’s clients online and on the phone, on site in Bartolome House. Face to face support for clients is provided on Fridays at Bartolome Lodge. The charity also organises support for clients attending hearings at the Family and Civil Sheffield courts. Volunteers are supported and supervised by a manager employed by STC.
Support Through Court contact details.