Casework volunteer story: Sophia Bradstreet

As Advocate welcome our next cohort of casework volunteers for the summer, previous stand-out casework volunteer Sophia Bradstreet has taken the time to reflect on her experience on the programme, why she recommends it to other law students, and the meaningful impact volunteering has allowed her to make.

1. Tell us more about yourself

I am currently undergoing my Law degree at Goldsmiths, University of London, as a mature student. Before commencing my degree, I spent five years working in both the legal and intelligence fields, always fighting for those most in need and people who would otherwise fall through the cracks of the system. This is what drew me to Law in the first place, and I can be found searching for new ways to help others and volunteer during my free time, along with reading, travelling and visiting museums. 

2. What drew you to the casework volunteer programme at Advocate?

What drew me to the opportunity at Advocate was the incredibly broad range of cases it handles. It has enabled me to push myself and engage with areas I am not familiar with. This has made me a stronger critical and analytical thinker, and I am grateful for the different perspectives this has offered me. 

3. To you, what has been the most valuable part of your role as casework volunteer?

The most valuable part of my role as a casework volunteer has been the impact I have been able to have. Through the numerous summaries and bundles I compiled, I have made it easier to determine whether Advocate will be able to help a given applicant. It also takes pressure off the larger team, especially due to the incredibly large caseload Advocate has. Advocate is a charity that relies on volunteers; there are countless numbers of people who otherwise would not have had their voice heard or represented if it was not for the work that Advocate does - this is the greatest feeling of all for me and only motivates me to work that much harder. 

4. What advice would you give to anyone considering applying for the Casework Volunteer programme at Advocate?

My advice to anyone considering this incredible opportunity is to not hold back. It can be daunting when you first bundle cases and draft summaries as the standard expected is so high. But your supervisor is there to help you, not hinder. Give yourself a chance. In the process, you are able to help people who have nowhere else to turn to, with the majority unfamiliar with the legal system and how it works, along with what rights they have. If you are interested in pro bono work and making a real difference, this position could not be more perfect. 

Feel inspired to take part in our Casework Volunteering programme? Find out more and apply to the next cohort.