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Pro Bono Opportunity – Supporting Windrush Justice with LAW

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Liverpool Advocates For Windrush (LAW) is seeking volunteer lawyers to support people affected by the Windrush scandal and their families. We would be grateful if you would consider offering your time or sharing this request within your networks.

Who we are
LAW is a community-based social justice organisation in Merseyside. We support:

  • Members of the Windrush generation and their descendants
  • Commonwealth and EU citizens who arrived as children or have been affected
  • Windrush families still tackling status, documentation and compensation issues

We provide free advocacy, community legal education and support to people who have been directly harmed by historic and ongoing Home Office practices. We currently have one pro bono solicitor – a partner at Broudie Jackson Canter and we collaborate with Liverpool John Moores University Law Advice Centre (LJMU LAC) on our casework and community support.

 Why we need you
Many of those affected by Windrush are still living with the consequences, including:

  • Unresolved or precarious immigration status
  • Barriers to securing British citizenship or confirmation of status
  • Complex or stalled Windrush Compensation Scheme claims
  • Losses linked to employment, housing, healthcare and pensions

There remains a serious gap in accessible specialist legal support for these issues. Volunteer lawyers can make an immediate, concrete difference to people who have already waited far too long for justice. In Merseyside, our survey showed that over 7000 are affected (please see attached).

 What we are looking for
We are keen to hear from solicitors and barristers who can offer pro bono support with:

  • Windrush Documentation Scheme (securing or confirming status)
  • Windrush Compensation Scheme (advice, evidence-gathering, valuation, reviews)
  • Immigration – specifically nationality law as it relates to the Windrush Schemes
  • Citizenship and registration for long-resident Commonwealth citizens and their children
  • Public law challenges to related decision-making, where appropriate

Previous Windrush casework experience is very welcome but not essential. A strong public law, immigration or civil justice background and a commitment to access to justice are key.

How volunteering could work
We are flexible and will work around your capacity. Examples include:

  • One-off case consultations or clinics (remote or in-person)
  • Taking on a discrete Windrush documentation or compensation matter
  • Providing second opinions on complex or “borderline” cases
  • Supporting strategic or test cases arising from our community work
  • Delivering training or supervision to our staff and volunteers

We can:

  • Pre-screen and prepare referrals so your time is used effectively
  • Provide community context and support to clients through our advocacy work
  • Acknowledge your contribution in our communications, if you wish

Why this matters
For those affected by Windrush, legal help is often the difference between:

  • Recognition or continued disbelief
  • Security in the UK or ongoing precarity
  • Modest compensation or none at all

Many have worked, paid taxes and served this country for decades – some as veterans and key workers – yet are still waiting for their situation to be fully resolved. Your expertise can help restore rights, dignity and a sense of justice.

 Next steps
If you are interested in supporting our Windrush work, or would like to explore a pro bono partnership for your firm or chambers, please contact:  info@liverpooladvocatesforwindrush.org  and include in the subject line 'Pro Bono Volunteer'

We would be very happy to arrange a short call to discuss what may be possible. Even a small time commitment can have a large impact.