Law Clinic launches new weekly service in city centre

Essex Law Clinic is providing essential services in the heart of Colchester City Centre thanks to an exciting new partnership with Community360.

Students and staff provide free, expert advice to members of the community, with services including family casework, as well as housing and immigration.

Clinic Director Liz Fisher-Frank is working with a small group of students to hold weekly sessions at the One Colchester Community Hub, in Long Wyre Street.

The new initiative demonstrates the law clinic’s drive and commitment to working for the community, within the community, and it is hoped the weekly sessions will provide greater access to free legal information for more people in the area.

Liz Fisher-Frank said: “We are delighted to develop our community partnerships further by collaborating with Community360. Staff and students will regularly attend the Hub in the city centre to assist Community360 staff and engage with the public to improve access to justice in our area.”

She added: “This is also a gateway for potential clients to access the law clinic and its much sought after and much needed advice service.”

Tracy Rudling, CEO at Community360 said: “We are delighted to welcome the Essex Law Clinic to the Hub. This service will be a great asset to our community allowing them access to free, confidential, and impartial legal advice.

“It is also a fantastic opportunity for the law students at the university to develop their skills and gain experience. The Law Clinic is a valuable addition to the services we provide to help people get the support they need.”

Students working at the law clinic do so on a voluntary basis and under the guidance of staff, provide legal advice and signposting for members of the public free of charge.

This offers intensively trained students the chance to practice their skills, as well as gain experience and develop their knowledge to deliver legal excellence.

Essex Law Clinic students provide a vital service for the public who otherwise may be unable to access advice and are proud of their work in helping the public access justice.

The law clinic will resume its work at the Community360 hub in the new year, with the advice service running on an appointment-only basis.