Shop opening 9:30am to 4:00 pm | Family Support 9:30am to 4:30pm

Please Donate
Contact
Cover My Tracks

Tag: volunteering

  • Volunteer McKenzie Friend

    Are you passionate about supporting individuals through challenging legal experiences? This is an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience assisting clients, particularly those affected by domestic abuse, as they navigate Family Court proceedings.

    Location: Derby, Chesterfield, or Nottingham (court attendance) with hybrid working
    Time Commitment: Flexible

    Role Purpose:

    As a McKenzie Friend, you will provide vital support by offering moral encouragement, helping with document organisation, and ensuring clients feel prepared and supported. While not legally qualified, McKenzie Friends play a crucial role in helping litigants in person feel more confident during their court journey.

    Key Responsibilities:

    • Manage a caseload of clients requiring Family Court support.
    • Assist with statement preparation and information gathering.
    • Provide practical and emotional support during hearings.
    • Liaise with the court, advisers, and other agencies to advocate for clients’ needs.
    • Take notes during court proceedings and follow up on court order deadlines.
    • Refer or signpost clients to additional support services.

    What You Cannot Do:

    • Represent or speak on behalf of clients in court.
    • Sign documents for clients.
    • Provide legal advice.

    Skills & Experience:

    • No formal legal qualifications required, but knowledge of Family Court is beneficial.
    • Strong organisation and communication skills.
    • Ability to remain calm and supportive in stressful situations.
    • Empathy, patience, and discretion.
    • Commitment to confidentiality and professional boundaries.

    Benefits:

    • Gain hands-on legal experience.
    • Support vulnerable individuals in accessing justice.
    • Develop advocacy, research, and interpersonal skills.
    • Flexible volunteering with hybrid working options.

    Personal Profile:

    • Demonstrate professionalism, empathy, and a non-judgmental attitude.
    • Understand the dynamics of domestic abuse.
    • Be supportive, compassionate, and a positive mentor to clients.
    • Work well in a team and be self-motivated.
    • No prior court experience necessary; training and shadowing will be provided.

    If you’re ready to make a difference and support individuals in need, we’d love to hear from you!

    Email mckenziefriend@salcare.org.uk for further information