Free legal advice from the University of Salford

Students from the University of Salford have been doing their part to help people with legal problems and there are still slots available for anyone who is looking for some free legal advice on anything from housing to family matters.

Around 30 Law students from the Business School have been working on pro bono projects throughout the year, including the ‘SILKS’ (Salford Information and Legal Knowledge Scheme) Law Clinic, a free legal service for the local community.

SILKS, which offers advice on matters such as housing problems or family law, is run by qualified lawyers with support from University of Salford students. The students are closely supervised by qualified solicitors from the University of Salford and partner law firms Fieldings Porter and Ward Hadaway. This year appointments have taken place both online and face-to-face.

Sinead Farry, Lecturer in Law at the University of Salford Business School, said: “Within our University Law Clinic we want to recognise and raise awareness of the voluntary contribution made by the legal profession across the UK in giving free legal help to those in need. 

"Pro bono work is a vital part of the legal profession, helping people who are in need and can’t afford legal fees. And it is an important part of the students’ experience when studying law at Salford, it provides vital real-world experience, as well as helping people in need.” 

The Clinic is always looking to enhance existing partnerships and develop collaborative working relationships with a range of organisations and is fortunate to have the support from key advice sector organisations including the Citizen’s Advice Bureau.

Tom Togher, Chief Officer of the Salford Citizens Advice Bureau said: “As the largest provider of social welfare advice in the City, Citizens Advice Salford values its partnership with University of Salford, and we were pleased to support the development of the law clinic and to refer clients for valuable pro Bono legal advice in housing and family law. In pro Bono week we wish the University law clinic well!” 

To book an appointment with the SILKS clinic, email probono-law@salford.ac.uk.