As we celebrate Pro Bono Week, we are proud to share how the Agatha Hunt Fund, established by Mishcon de Reya in partnership with the University of Sheffield School of Law, is already supporting students committed to access to justice.
Launched in memory of Agatha Hunt, who studied Law at the University of Sheffield between 2016 and 2020 and was a dedicated volunteer in the University's pro bono programmes, the fund honours her commitment to widening opportunity and supporting others through the law.
This academic year, the fund will provide £6,500 in bursaries, prizes and support, helping students overcome financial barriers, access educational opportunities and participate in pro bono work.
Supporting students
The majority of the fund is directed towards students from lower-income backgrounds who are already in receipt of a University of Sheffield bursary.
Students undertaking a year abroad will receive an Agatha Hunt Bursary, while further bursaries will be awarded to students participating in the School of Law's pro bono schemes, including Freelaw, CommLaw, the Digital Justice Project and Support Through Court.
The fund also includes a student support scheme to help cover the costs of activities that can enhance students' studies and career development, including mooting competitions, internship travel and professional clothing.
Recognising achievement
The Agatha Hunt Memorial Prize for Outstanding Contribution to Pro Bono will be awarded annually to a student who has made an exceptional contribution to one of the School's pro bono programmes. Alongside a cash prize, the recipient will be offered a place on one of Mishcon de Reya's work experience schemes.
The fund also supports the Agatha Hunt Module Prize, awarded annually to the highest-performing student in a designated School of Law module. The winning student will receive a cash prize and a place on a Mishcon de Reya work experience scheme.
A lasting legacy
As the first awards are made, it is encouraging to see the fund already helping students access opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach, while recognising outstanding academic achievement and commitment to pro bono service.
For Mishcon de Reya, supporting the next generation of lawyers is an important part of our commitment to pro bono, social mobility and widening access to the profession. Through bursaries, prizes and work experience opportunities, the Agatha Hunt Fund will help ensure that Agatha's commitment to public service continues to inspire and support future generations of students.