During my internship at Support Through Court, based at the Royal Courts of Justice and Central Family Court, I had the privilege of gaining valuable insights and contributing to a cause I am deeply passionate about. Support Through Court is a UK legal charity with a mission to reduce the disadvantage faced by individuals representing themselves in court. The organization empowers those navigating the civil and family justice system without legal representation, particularly in cases involving family law and human rights violations, such as sexual abuse, child assault, and land disputes.

My internship experience was divided into three distinct but interrelated divisions: communications, fundraising, and the legal department. Each department provided a unique perspective and valuable learning opportunities. In the communications department, I had the chance to actively participate in organising events and cocktail parties. My responsibilities included creating eye-catching flyers, developing branding materials, and curating a segment called "Client Spotlight." This segment allowed me to share the stories and experiences of the survivors we worked with, shedding light on the profound impact that Support Through Court had on their journey to justice. Additionally, I engaged in raising awareness about the organisation's vital role in providing access to justice for those who needed it most. During my tenure in the fundraising department, I delved into research efforts to identify grants that the organisation was eligible for. I also had the opportunity to assist in the grant application process, honing my skills in writing and proposals.

One of my responsibilities included creating comprehensive spreadsheets listing judges and law firms that could potentially contribute to our cause. This experience taught me the importance of meticulous organisation and demonstrated how fundraising is crucial to sustaining an organisation's operations. However, the most impactful part of my internship was my time in the legal department. I had the unique privilege of shadowing lawyers and sitting in with clients during legal proceedings. This experience was both enlightening and emotional, as I gained firsthand insights into how cases were adjudicated. I had the opportunity to interact with legal resources like c100 forms and observe essential legal procedures in family law. This exposure deepened my understanding of the legal field and reaffirmed my commitment to making a meaningful contribution to the pursuit of justice. The internship also provided networking opportunities that proved invaluable. During events and cocktail parties, I had the honour of meeting judges and dignitaries in the legal field. Engaging with these legal professionals expanded my network and provided me with a unique platform to learn from their experiences and insights. Throughout my internship, I was fortunate to work with an incredibly supportive team.

My manager, in particular, played a crucial role in my professional growth. Their patience, guidance, and feedback were instrumental in my development. They entrusted me with various projects that allowed me to enhance my skills and make a real impact within the organisation. In conclusion, my internship at Support Through Court was an eye-opening and rewarding experience. It deepened my understanding of the legal field and reinforced my passion for public policy. The exposure to various aspects of the organisation's operations, from communications and fundraising to legal proceedings, provided a holistic perspective on the challenges and opportunities in the pursuit of justice. I am immensely grateful for the support and trust extended to me by my colleagues, which contributed significantly to my personal and professional growth. This internship solidified my commitment to contributing meaningfully to the pursuit of justice and equity.