University of Hertfordshire Wins Two Awards at the LawWorks and Attorney General Student Pro Bono Awards
The University of Hertfordshire secured two prestigious awards at the LawWorks and Attorney General Student Pro Bono Awards ceremony held at the House of Lords last month. The event, sponsored by Lexis Nexis and hosted by the Attorney General, Rt Hon Victoria Prentis KC, celebrated exceptional pro bono contributions by law students and law schools.
Jekaterina Bodnarchuk, from Hertfordshire Law School, was honoured with the 'Best Contribution by an Individual Student' award. Jekaterina's remarkable five-year commitment as a Student Advisor at the Hertfordshire Law Clinic, coupled with her involvement in family law and employment law clinics, demonstrated her unwavering dedication to pro bono work. Additionally, she completed specialised training for a new Special Educational Needs Clinic.
Through her voluntary efforts, Jekaterina has made a significant impact on vulnerable clients, particularly those from one of Hertfordshire's most deprived areas. Her contributions included assisting with application forms, gathering evidence, drafting mandatory reconsideration letters, and preparing appeal documents. Notably, she played a crucial role in winning several appeals as part of the Welfare Benefits Appeals Project, a joint initiative between Hertfordshire Law School and Citizens Advice Stevenage. This has resulted in over £12,000 in benefits awarded to clients.
Reflecting on her journey, Jekaterina said, “Throughout my journey, I've always been passionate about giving back to the community and I've been fortunate to be involved in various co-curricular activities at Herts. From the Law Clinic to the Justice Bus and the Employment Litigant in-person activities, I've learned so much from the dedicated solicitors and lecturers who have been incredibly supportive. It's been an incredible journey, and I couldn't have done it without the unwavering support of everyone who has been part of this incredible experience. I'm looking forward to what lies ahead and feeling immensely grateful for how far I've come.”
Herts also received a joint award with Kings College, London for the 'Best Contribution by a Team of Students' category, recognising the impactful work of the Justice Bus Project. The Justice Bus, an initiative by the Hertfordshire Law Clinic, provides a mobile legal advice service, reaching out to towns and villages across Hertfordshire. This innovative approach allows individuals to receive essential legal support in familiar surroundings.
Since its inception in 2022, the Justice Bus has served over 30 clients with specialised advice and supported many more with signposting and general assistance. Over 30 volunteer student advisors have actively participated in this project, testament to their commitment to making legal services accessible to those in need.
These awards highlight the University of Hertfordshire's dedication to fostering a culture of community service and legal excellence among law students. Embodying the true spirit of pro bono activities, Herts law students continue to make a difference in the lives of individuals and communities. Find out more about the University of Hertfordshire’s Law School and Hertfordshire Law Clinic.