Leeds Beckett and local law firms strengthen talent pipeline
Leeds Beckett University is working alongside local law firms, charities and community organisations to strengthen the city's legal talent pipeline while delivering valuable support to communities across West Yorkshire.
As a founding member of the Leeds Anchors Network, the University is using its position as a major institution to connect students with employers and create opportunities that support both economic growth and social impact.
Through partnerships with organisations including Support Through Court, and outreach projects in collaboration with the Hunslet Club and Sue Ryder Hospices; as well as legal firms such as Levi Solicitors, Crockett & Co Solicitors and Switalskis, Leeds Beckett is providing students with hands-on experience while helping local organisations expand their reach.
The initiative is centred around Leeds Law School's Law Clinic and community engagement programmes, which enable students to work on real legal issues, engage directly with clients and gain practical experience alongside legal professionals.
The University's partnership with Support Through Court, a national charity that supports people navigating the court system without legal representation, has also created significant opportunities for students to develop professional skills while contributing to their local communities.
Since 2022, Leeds Beckett students have helped clients on over 15,000 occasions through the initiative, providing procedural and emotional support to individuals across the region.
Beyond the social impact, the partnerships help students develop key workplace skills, including communication, problem-solving, client management and professionalism, capabilities that are increasingly valued by employers across the legal sector.
Dr Rachel Dunn, Head of Subject (Postgraduate) at Leeds Law School, said: “Many of our strongest partnerships with local law firms have been built through former students who have gone on to establish successful careers before returning to support the next generation.
“These partnerships allow students to gain practical experience working with real clients and real legal issues, developing skills that employers consistently tell us are increasingly valuable.
“At the same time, local businesses gain access to a pipeline of graduates who understand both the profession and the communities they serve. It's a model that supports both economic growth and social mobility.”
The University believes these long-term partnerships are helping to strengthen access to justice in one of the UK’s leading legal centres outside of London, while supporting graduate retention within the region.
Through the Leeds Anchors Network, Leeds Beckett University is continuing to explore new ways of bringing together businesses, charities, public bodies and community organisations to create joined-up approaches to skills development and social justice.
Dr Dunn added: “Universities have a unique role to play as anchor institutions.
"By working alongside law firms and community organisations, we can help develop future talent, strengthen local partnerships and contribute to a more resilient and inclusive regional economy.”
The success of Leeds Law School’s Law Clinic and community partnerships demonstrates how collaboration between higher education and industry can deliver benefits for students, employers and communities alike, creating lasting value for the Leeds city region.