Ellie volunteers at Newton Abbot Magistrates’ Court to build skills for a career in law. Over the last six months, she has learnt about the complex reasons for court attendance.
Relevant work experience
After studying for a degree in modern languages, Ellie decided to work towards a Master of Laws at the University of Law. And soon, she will be taking her first solicitor exams. Volunteering at court has opened her eyes to the difficulties that lead to court attendance. Here, Ellie shares her insights:
Things snowball
‘Some people have had a difficult home life or come through the care system. Also, they may have additional needs and struggled through school. They sometimes fall in with the wrong crowd. Things snowball very quickly.
Literacy and form-filling
Firstly, I have noticed a lot of people struggling to fill in forms. Unfortunately, the education system has not served them well. Not only do they need help to fill in forms, but they also need to access adult education.
Getting back into work
Unfortunately, some people have lost their jobs. We connect them to the Connect to Work Scheme which is based in Newton Abbot Library. Over six months, they are mentored to get back into work. This can make all the difference.
Homelessness
When someone loses their job, they can end up street homeless. For instance, if they are homeless, they may start to steal to survive. They get arrested and then we meet them at court. As a result, we can help them access benefits and, ultimately, work.
Things snowball very quickly
Things can snowball very quickly. Some people end up self-medicating for things that have happened in the past. We get them to the support they need to deal with gambling, drugs or alcohol. For instance, there is a very good local Cocaine Anonymous.
As an example, we’ve been helping a person who lost his home after his father died. He’s living in a tent, without work and he is now in debt. Finally, he ended up at court for theft. And now, we are supporting him through this crisis.
All of these things cause a lack of confidence and deep loneliness.
Encouragement and support
We respond very quickly to suicidal thoughts, mental health issues and depression. We are here for encouragement, support and signposting to the right help.
Thankfully, we have the Courtenay Centre in Newton Abbot. This is attended by many local community groups and we encourage clients to go along for a cuppa to make new friends.’
This support through court can save lives. We don’t want anyone to give up.
Devon and Cornwall Refugee Support
On top of all this, Ellie goes along to local charity, Devon and Cornwall Refugee Support in Plymouth. Once a week, she volunteers to help people learn English. This way, she is meeting some great people and gaining an international perspective.
Looking to the future
With fluency in both German and French, alongside her recent volunteering and studies, Ellie is in a strong position for a bright future. We’re proud to have her on our team and we look forward to seeing all that she will achieve.
Thinking of volunteering?
We currently have 22 volunteers of all ages and backgrounds working inside Exeter, Newton Abbot, Plymouth, Bodmin and Truro courts.
Find out more here.
Apply to be a volunteer with us at court by completing the online application form here.