Influential Baroness to become Patron of Norfolk Community Law Service
A world-leading human rights campaigner has been named as Patron of a Norfolk charity as it celebrates its 40th anniversary.
Lawyer and House of Lords representative Baroness Shami Chakrabarti will take on the role at Norfolk Community Law Service (NCLS), the charity which offers free legal advice to the public.
The appointment comes after Baroness Chakrabarti, who was formerly Director of Liberty and Shadow Attorney General for England and Wales, took part in a sold-out law lecture at Jarrold’s in Norwich earlier this year to discuss her new book on human rights.
She said: “After spending time in Norfolk and learning all about the work of Norfolk Community Law Service I was instantly struck by how vital a service it is and what a good job they do for people who would otherwise have to go without legal support.
“I was honoured therefore to be asked to become the new patron of the charity and I am delighted to accept the offer.
“NCLS has a fantastic team, dedicated to providing insightful and impactful advice and representation. They are backed by a wonderful community of public-spirited lawyers and volunteers who understand how important it is that everybody has access to advice and representation, especially in the most challenging times.
“I really look forward to working with the staff and volunteers of the charity to help make sure their vital work continues and thrives for many years to come.”
NCLS was founded in 1985 and is holding a series of celebration events to celebrate 40 years of helping those in need. This will culminate in a Celebration Evening on Saturday, October 4 at Sprowston Manor Hotel. Tickets for which are available at ncls.co.uk.
David Powles, CEO of NCLS, said of the appointment: “Baroness Chakrabarti has an outstanding track-record of representing those who are in need and shouting about the injustices so many people face.
“The honour is all ours to have her on our side, and we know that her knowledge, passion and dedication to human rights can only help those many thousands in Norfolk who without legal representation.”
