Students swot up in pro bono scheme backed by City duo

City firms Clifford Chance and Masons are the first to sponsor a university pro bono scheme, which was launched this week in Manchester.

A building in Manchester University's own shopping mall, which is used by both students and the public, located on the campus near to the city's deprived Moss Side district, has been converted into an advice centre.

Up to 80 undergraduates will work on the scheme, offering advice to anyone who cannot get legal advice elsewhere.

Advice will be limited to letters - no court applications will be made.

The scheme was launched at a ceremony by former Law Society President Rodger Pannone, and Hugh Barrett, Manchester's Lord Mayor.

Manchester University created the scheme with the advice and assistance of the College of Law, the Solicitors Pro Bono Group (SPBG), and the Manchester Law Society.

Jeremy Fleming