Public Interest Careers
We are continuing to add information to this page so please check back regularly
CAJ Public Interest Careers Guide
For more information on pursuing your dream legal career, download the guide to public interest law for information on the different areas of law and relevant firms/chambers.
UCL SPBC Public Interest Graduate and Undergraduate Opportunities Table
For a comprehensive and regularly updated guide to opportunities in social justice, please see the UCL SPBC's Public Interest Undergraduate and Graduate Opportunities Table.
Public Interest Mentoring Scheme
This mentorship scheme aims to provide guidance and support to students interested in pursuing a career in social justice and public interest by connecting them to alumni and professionals currently working across the third and public sectors in related fields. Through this scheme, students will have the opportunity to explore volunteering, internship and graduate job opportunities in the public and third sector while also receiving more in-depth information and guidance through applications.
The aim of the scheme is that by using their skills, academic, and professional experience, mentors can support students’ development, encouraging productive conversations around academic, professional, and career/life goals.
Details on how to apply can be found by visiting the Public Interest Mentoring Scheme page.
Social Welfare Solicitors Qualification Fund
Please read the eligibility criteria before applying - for most it will not be an application to do this year, but it might be useful to know of the existence of this fund for future rounds. This is a very useful source of funding for SQE training and exams for those pursuing a career in areas of social welfare law including: Actions against public authorities; Crime; Debt; Community care; Discrimination; Education; Employment; Family; Housing; Immigration; Inquests; Mental health; Welfare benefits.
Find out more on The City of London Law Society website.
Justice First Fellowships
Justice First Fellowships: Training Contracts in Social Welfare Law
If you are passionate about using the law to deliver social justice, and you are looking for a fantastic opportunity to complete your training and move on to the next stage in a career advancing access to justice, then the Justice First Fellowship is for you. Find out more.
Useful Links
Young Legal Aid Lawyers Jobs and Opportunities
Volunteering with Students' Union UCL
Volunteer for charities within the National Pro Bono Centre
Volunteering for a local law clinic with Law Works
Volunteering with your local Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB)