Team Merrick powered their way through the 10-km Manchester Legal Walk to raise more than £440 for vital advice services.

The event was organised by the North West Legal Support Trust (NWLST). This grant-making charity raises and distributes funds to support free legal advice services and access to justice across Cumbria, Lancashire, Merseyside, Cheshire and Greater Manchester.

The charities backed by the NWLST help to support the poorest, most vulnerable and disadvantaged members of society. They provide free legal help to people facing problems such as homelessness, debt, employment, family issues, mental health problems, discrimination and injustice and they desperately need funds to support their work.

The need for free legal advice centres has grown in the past few years. The recession, and more recently the impact of Covid-19, has increased poverty and reduced support services. Meanwhile, funding for the advice centres themselves has reduced.

Access to justice has always been an important issue to Merrick’s Principal, Amanda, who was therefore keen to get her team involved in the walk. Whilst talking with two first year Manchester University law students during the Oxford Road part of the walk, Amanda said ‘everyone should be entitled to legal advice – that’s why we’re doing this’.

Amanda was joined on the walk by Merrick’s Mollie O’Connor and Keira Hand (plus Amanda’s partner, Dave, and four-legged supporter, Barney).

Mollie took on the main role of organising Merrick’s involvement in the walk and particularly enjoyed exploring the city. Mollie is a keen walker in her spare time. She couldn’t turn down the opportunity to raise some money for a good cause whilst doing something she loves.

We’re still fund-raising

Keira enjoyed the gathering at Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce at the end, not only for the celebratory red wine but also for the socialising and networking, particularly with students.

“It’s really not that long ago that I went to these events as a student to seek advice from qualified lawyers,” said Keira. “It felt good to have the tables turned and to be able to give something back.”

The walk began at the Manchester Civil Justice Centre and took participants past Castlefield, Manchester University, Chinatown and Canal Street (to name a few). After completing the walk, Team Merrick celebrated with complementary drinks courtesy of the University of Law.

Merrick would like to thank their sponsors who helped to secure vital funds for this important cause.

There’s still time to get our contribution over the £500 mark – and assist more people!

https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Team/Merrick21