Harbour Underwriting is delighted to have selected Support Through Court and Advocate as our charities of the year.
Support Through Court
Support Through Court helps people who are facing the civil and family courts alone. Every year, thousands of people in the UK have to represent themselves in legal proceedings that may have a life-changing impact, such as homelessness or loss of access to their children.
If they are up against a party with legal representation, they are at an enormous disadvantage. Our legal system was not designed with laypeople in mind, and the complicated procedures and complex terminology can be overwhelming.
The charity has more than 600 volunteers in England and Wales who listen to each client’s story. They help them organise their thoughts, decide on the next steps, explain complex procedures, complete court forms and present statements clearly.
In 2023, 96% of Support Through Court’s clients said their volunteers helped make procedures clearer and made them feel better prepared.
Ali Evans, Corporate Partnership Manager, Support Through Court, said: “We’re extremely thankful for your support, which enables us to make a huge difference to those going through court alone. We’re on track to provide up to 70,000 sessions of assistance this year: assistance which will improve the situation of people in a time of great need. We can only provide our service with the support of our donors like Harbour Underwriting, and it is hugely appreciated.” You can find out more about Support Through Court here.
Advocate
Advocate offers free legal assistance from volunteer barristers who donate their time and expertise in deserving cases to people who cannot obtain legal aid or cannot afford to pay.
Advocate is the Bar’s national pro bono charity that makes it possible for barristers to balance a dedicated practice with making a significant contribution to the community.
The charity is in its 25th anniversary year, and its goal over the next 25 years is “to help even more people navigate the sometimes complex and overwhelming legal system”.
Rebecca Wilkie, CEO of Advocate, said: “We are very grateful for Harbour Underwriting’s donation, which enables us to support vulnerable people with dedicated barristers who offer their expertise pro bono.” You can find out more about Advocate here.
Harbour Underwriting’s managing director and underwriting director, Rocco Pirozzolo, said:
“We are delighted to have selected Support Through Court and Advocate as our chosen charities. Both are wonderfully worthwhile organisations that do so much to support people unable to pay for the legal representation they need and help secure access to justice. We look forward to working closely with both charities.”
