Keele students and staff recognised on Attorney General list honouring pro bono legal work

Keele students and staff have been commended for their work offering free legal assistance in a prestigious list supported by the Attorney General. 

The Pro Bono Recognition and Student Clinical Legal Education Recognition (CLE) Lists, supported by the Attorney General's Pro Bono Committee, are published to honour and celebrate the legal professionals and students who have volunteered 25 hours or more over the past year to offer free legal assistance to those in need. 

The 2026 CLE list features no fewer than 41 Keele students who have volunteered with CLOCK founded and led by Dr Jane Krishnadas, the Legal Advice Clinics, and Citizens Advice, while Keele’s Supervising Solicitor, Sarah Askey, also featured on the Pro Bono Recognition List of England and Wales. 

The Student CLE List celebrates law students across England and Wales who have volunteered 25 hours or more either through their law school clinic to provide free legal advice, the CLOCK.uk.net programme or through a placement with Citizens Advice to provide assistance to vulnerable litigants in person; individuals, charities or community groups. 

Opportunities through Citizens Advice, Advice Clinics at law schools and the CLOCK programme make a significant and lasting contribution to communities by providing free legal assistance and providing guidance on legal rights and responsibilities.  

The recognition comes as the newest cohort of law students recently attended a week of training to prepare them for working in these pro bono roles, with sessions delivered by a range of guest speakers and partner agencies to give them the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to support clients effectively. 

Jo Meakin, Operations Co-ordinator for CLOCK, said: “We are immensely grateful for the commitment, compassion, and hard work that our students bring to CLOCK and our clinics. Alongside their academic studies, they generously volunteer their time to support members of our community, helping individuals navigate often challenging situations and providing invaluable assistance to those who need it most. 

“Their dedication, professionalism, and willingness to go above and beyond make a real difference to the lives of the people they support. We are incredibly proud of the positive impact they have within our local community and deeply appreciative of the time, energy, and care they invest throughout the year.” 

The Legal Advice Clinics and CLOCK are also supported by Supervising Solicitor Michele Brown, and Operations Coordinator Becci Dennis-Benn.