Thank You for 50 Years of Justice, Hope and Community
On Tuesday 16 July 2025, more than 100 people gathered at Ruskin House in Croydon to celebrate 50 years of South West London Law Centres — five decades of standing with our communities and fighting for justice.
“This is not just a celebration of time passed. It’s a recognition of something enduring… a commitment that justice should never be a privilege of the few, but the right of all.” — Pradeep Kumar, Immigration Team Leader
The evening was filled with warmth, reflection, and connection. We came together not only to thank those who have shaped our mission over the past five decades — staff, volunteers, trustees, supporters and friends — but also to look forward and launch the SWLLC Friends Network, a new platform to connect everyone who believes in the power and future of social justice.
We heard from people across our teams:
Simon Tinkler, Acting Chair of Trustees, reflected on the uphill journey of sustaining a law centre in the face of cuts and uncertainty, reminding us that “we do not simply work in the community.. we are part of it.”
Nichola Warrender KC, our new Chair, paid tribute to the staff and supporters who have carried us through these 50 years, calling on everyone in the room to stay closer than ever: “The future of the Law Centre is secured by people like you… to get through the next 50 years, we need you closer than ever.”
Pradeep Kumar, who has been with SWLLC for over 20 years, shared his journey from new staff member to leader: “You haven’t just delivered legal advice. You’ve delivered hope. Stability. A chance.”
Hajra Jafri, a junior staff member and aspiring barrister, spoke honestly about the pressures facing the legal aid sector: “If we want legal aid to thrive, we can’t just rely on passion alone. We need career growth incentives, mentorship, investment and long-term thinking.”
Tom Chapman, from our admin team, brought humour and heart, reminding us that “we’re united not by a quest for the Holy Grail, but by our shared commitment to provide access to justice for those who need it most.”
We also screened a moving video message from Bob Nightingale, who reflected on the Law Centre’s formation, our merger, and the essential truth that access to justice is a vague term, but it simply means access to a better life for community members.
Launching the SWLLC Friends Network
The event also marked the launch of the SWLLC Friends Network, a way to reconnect and grow our community of supporters — past and present. Whether you were a staff member in 1985, a volunteer in 2005, or a client in 2023, we want to hear from you.
Were you part of our story? Please get in touch via comms@swllc.org to join the Friends Network. Let’s continue shaping the future of access to justice together.
Thank you to everyone who joined us in person or in spirit. Your belief in this work is what carries it forward.
“Let this be not just a moment of reflection — but a moment of renewal.” — Pradeep Kumar