Monday 4 November marks the start of National Pro Bono Week, and this year is special as we also celebrate 20 years of The Legal Service, our dedicated Pro Bono service.
Our seven-strong full-time pro bono team provides support to those who have sustained a life-changing injury or developed a serious illness, not just those who may be able to bring a compensation claim.
Kara Smith, Partner and Head of Pro Bono at Stewarts commented:
"We are proud to be able to support our clients and their families at a time when they most need it. During my years working as part of the Legal Service, I have seen first-hand how freely available legal advice provides that much needed support and guidance and ultimately helps to change lives."
The Power of Pro Bono
This year’s theme is ‘The Power of Pro Bono’. A recent Legal Service client summarised the power pro bono has had on her life, saying: “Your expertise, empathy and guidance made all the difference in my situation. I am forever grateful, and I will always be thankful for the impact you had on my life”.
Since the Legal Service was founded, we have assisted over 6,200 patients with a huge array of legal issues. We have:
- executed 652 powers of attorney;
- made 211 applications to the Court of Protection;
- recovered over £12.1 million for patients through no-fault personal accident or critical illness insurance;
- assisted with the write-off of £1.2 million of patient debt;
- helped 2,408 patients with housing issues;
- helped 3,674 patients with welfare benefits;
- assisted 907 patients with employment issues.
Support beyond the injury claim
Want to learn more about the work our Pro Bono team does? Kara Smith and Pro Bono Manager Jodee Mayer explain more in this video.
