The Justice Hub proudly welcomed Attorney General Lord Hermer KC on a recent visit to spotlight our impactful Legal Advice Centre, Manchester Innocence Project, and our strong ties with the North West’s vibrant legal community.
The Justice Hub had the honour of hosting Attorney General Lord Hermer KC on Monday, 16 September. The visit highlighted the work of our Legal Advice Centre, Manchester Innocence Project and connection to the broader legal profession in the North West region.
The visit came as part of a wider mission to engage with the legal community across England and Wales with Monday’s focus being the North West. The Attorney General hosted a roundtable with legal firms and barristers, visited the Government Legal Department in Salford, and engaged with our Justice Hub team.
The Attorney General Richard Hermer KC said:
Being able to access legal services can provide crucial help for those facing some of the most serious and complex legal issues.
Throughout my career, I have been committed to ensuring access to justice and so it was an honour to be invited to visit the Justice Hub during my trip to the North-West. I was extremely impressed by the work and range of services provided there. I spoke with students working in the legal advice centre, who are not only getting real-life experience working in the justice system but who are also providing important services to the people that need it most.
In the Legal Advice Centre our students, supervised by University staff and volunteer lawyers, offer free advice to the general public. One of our students, Alicia Smith, was able to meet the Attorney General as part of the visit and share their thoughts:
It was a surreal experience, and I felt very fortunate to be able to discuss my views with the Attorney General.
Director of the Justice Hub, Phil Drake, and Manchester Innocence Project Academic Director, Claire McGourlay, also shared their insights:
It was a real honour for the Attorney General to attend the Justice Hub and take an interest in the pro bono activities our students are involved with. The Attorney General particularly engaged with our students to understand their perspective and experiences, which I know has galvanised and inspired them to continue with their passion for access to justice.
It was a pleasure to host the Attorney General at the Justice Hub yesterday. Two of our students Roan Goulden and Alicia Smith talked through the work that they do to help the most disadvantaged in our society. We invited the Attorney General to give a lecture in the future, so watch this space.
