Judith on Why You Should Volunteer at SWLLC
Judith joined South West London Law Centres (SWLLC) almost a year ago, bringing with her a wealth of professional experience and a deep concern about the impact of the cost-of-living crisis. Her decision to volunteer was sparked by both her background in energy policy and a desire to return to hands-on community work. “I’m hugely concerned about how extremely high energy bills are adding to people’s struggles with the cost of living, tipping many individuals further into poverty and endless cycles of debt,” she explains.
Her connection to SWLLC began in an unexpected way. “I heard Roni, the Cost of Living team leader, give oral evidence to a House of Commons select committee inquiry into the cost-of-living crisis—she was hugely impressive. So I looked up SWLLC and found you were looking for volunteers,” Judith recalls.
Starting out as a volunteer, Judith found the work both familiar and eye-opening. “For me, it’s been very dismaying to see how today’s harsh realities of navigating the benefits system, struggling with arrears and debt, and wrestling with the byzantine systems of DWP and local authorities are very little changed,” she says. She also noted shifts in the system since her earlier experiences as a housing adviser with Shelter Housing Aid. “One notable difference now is how, at every level of the system, there seems to be far less discretion to deal with a person’s issue or complaint. This may be about fairness and accountability, but arguably it also makes it far harder to quickly cut through and help a particular individual.”
Despite these challenges, Judith has found real meaning in her role, particularly in the connections she has built with clients and colleagues. “I really like speaking with clients on the phone and seeing them face-to-face on Turn Up Tuesdays,” she says. “The Croydon office is fantastic—there’s such a mix of committed, enthusiastic, and diverse people who are intent on making a difference through their work.”
Her experience has also given her valuable insight into the wider systemic issues at play. “Surely there must be better ways to enable an individual their rightful access to cost-of-living support—appropriate to their personal needs—without them first having to engage in wrestling a multitude of impenetrable bureaucracies,” Judith reflects. “In their drive for greater productivity and efficiency across the public sector, government might do well to look at improving welfare system access. There must be an enormous cost to the public purse from these hugely bureaucratic and siloed gate-keeping processes.”
Judith’s perspective is grounded not only in her professional expertise but also in the deeply human side of the work. “I’m extremely struck by how many of SWLLC’s clients come to the law centre for advice after some kind of unexpected change in their life—whether that’s their job, their family circumstances, ill health, or some other life event. In other words, people just like you or me,” she says. “They are also invariably grateful to the Cost of Living team for their time and effort. It’s humbling how glad many clients are that somebody has simply listened.”
For Judith, volunteering has been as rewarding as it has been educational. “I’ve learned much about the detailed ins and outs of the welfare benefits system and debt management. And above all, I can see how this needs to be far more responsive than it is now—it must start to serve the individual better.” she shares.
When asked what she would say to someone considering volunteering, Judith doesn’t hesitate. “Put yourself forward, regardless of your type or depth of experience,” she urges. “Many law centre volunteers are young and exploring their career paths, but there’s so much scope for volunteers with more long-standing experience to contribute a great deal to the work of the law centre. Bring a genuine desire to learn about welfare benefits, debt, and money management, and be happy to roll up your sleeves to help permanent staff manage their caseloads. Your contribution will make a real difference.”
Judith’s story highlights the vital role volunteers play in supporting SWLLC’s work and the unique rewards of getting involved. We are looking for more volunteers like Judith who are willing to support us on a longer-term basis. Whether you have some extra time to spare, or are simply looking for a meaningful way to give back, we’d love to hear from you. Simply contact us at volunteers@swllc.org for any volunteer related enquiries.
For over 50 years, South West London Law Centres has been a steadfast advocate for justice, providing vital support in areas such as immigration, debt, cost of living, housing, employment, and more. Formed in 1974, we’ve grown alongside our communities, guided by the belief that everyone—regardless of income—deserves access to legal advice and representation.
From our offices in Croydon, Merton, and Wandsworth, we continue to serve all six south-west London boroughs: Croydon, Merton, Kingston, Sutton, Richmond, and Wandsworth. Your support—whether through volunteering, donating, or spreading awareness—helps ensure that we can continue making a difference for the next 50 years and beyond.