Coram Chambers is proud to announce its participation in the eagerly anticipated London Legal Walk on 17th June. This year, we have assembled a cross-departmental team of eight dedicated walkers: Alex Clift, Rachel Mary Cooper, Katherine Duncan, Sean Gentleman, Lucy Narramore (ACA), Leo Saunders, Srishti Suresh, and Hannah Whitehouse. Together, we will stride alongside the esteemed Lady Chief Justice and thousands of fellow legal professionals, all united to raise vital funds for the London Legal Support Trust (LLST), Advocate, and the Free Representation Unit.
Last year marked a remarkable milestone, with LLST celebrating its 20th anniversary by raising an astonishing £1 million, significantly aiding thousands in their quest for justice. Sadly, the reality remains that many individuals across the UK cannot afford legal assistance, with one in five (21%) of the population living in poverty, roughly equivalent to 14 million people. This stark statistic underscores the importance of our mission.
The London Legal Support Trust plays a crucial role by raising funds to sustain free legal advice charities in London and the South East. Your generous donations will support these agencies’ direct advice services, assisting individuals like Mike.
Mike’s story is a poignant reminder of the essential support these services offer. After moving into a housing association flat in 1996, Mike, unaware that his employer had secured a sub-lease on the property, faced an unexpected eviction twenty years later when his employer went into liquidation. Alongside losing his job, which came with no redundancy pay, he was left grappling with the unexpected loss of his wife. Initially told by a private solicitor that he had no case, Mike sought help from one of the Centres of Excellence (COEx) through their Court Duty Scheme.
Thanks to their expert guidance, Mike successfully defended his tenancy rights, proving that his home was independent of his employment. Ultimately, his landlords agreed to a settlement, and he was offered a new, more suitable home nearby by the housing association.
Every step we take and every penny we raise brings us closer to a community where access to justice and support is available to all. We invite you to sponsor our walkers as generously as you are able.
Thank you for your unwavering support. Together, we can make a difference. For those looking to contribute, please visit the donation link.
