News
Use unclaimed balances and unused budget for good
- Make a firm commitment to support solicitors in difficult times
- Find out how donating your unclaimed client balances will make a positive difference
- Contribute any of your law firm’s unused budget to a good purpose by donating to The Solicitors’ Charity and helping solicitors in times of need
The Solicitors’ Charity is calling on law firms to help make a positive difference to the wellbeing of solicitors by donating its unclaimed balances, risk-free, at any time. With some financial years also coming to a close, the Charity is calling on law firms to contribute any unused budget to a good purpose.
The Solicitors’ Charity CEO Nick Gallagher said: “Now is the perfect time to make a firm commitment to support the profession through The Solicitors’ Charity. With our expanded range of wellbeing support, we’re reaching more individuals than ever before.
“We invite you to join us. Wherever you are in your financial year, just beginning, halfway through, or end, your contribution, whether a one-time donation or regular RCB support, can help solicitors facing adversity. Together, let’s ensure no solicitor stands alone in times of need.”
The Solicitors’ Charity offers a range of wellbeing and emotional support services, as well as practical and financial help, to provide a safe place for all solicitors going through difficult times. The Charity works with many support organisations, including LawCare, Onebright, Renovo, Citizens Advice Manchester (CAM), Pennysmart, and Advice Works to get solicitors back on their feet. LawCare, is the mental health and wellbeing charity offering peer-to-peer support to the legal sector, while Onebright is dedicated to providing end-to-end services for mental health. The Charity offers referrals, signposting, and provides funds for both.
Solicitor ‘Dan’ (name changed for privacy) explained: “The help with accommodation and financial support provided by The Solicitors’ Charity is really helping me get back on my feet… The best thing now is being debt-free, having a roof over my head and a warm room. If the Charity hadn’t been there for me, I don’t know what would have happened. They’ve been massively helpful and a real lifesaver”.
Regular RCB donor, Anthony Earl, Director at Earl and Crocker Solicitors said: “I am honoured to advocate for this commendable charity, which provides essential support to our profession amidst its demanding and high-pressure nature. The ease of donating, coupled with the assurance of fund return, if necessary, underscores its accessibility and reliability.”
“Particularly in these times of financial strain and heightened focus on wellbeing, its importance is paramount. I urge fellow law firms to join us in supporting this essential cause, enriching the very profession in which we work”.
Solicitor ‘Naomi’ (named changed) says: “I don’t know how I would have survived without the kindness and support of The Solicitors’ Charity. When I contacted the Charity, I was treated like a human being. I was struggling to pay rent, bills, food, living essentials, and relying on the goodwill of friends… The Solicitors’ Charity provided me with essential support and relief in desperate circumstances; they made it possible for me to live”.
The Charity’s new fundraising campaign invites law firms to use any unused budget they may have to make a one-off donation, or to donate their RCBs regularly, with no risk involved. It is also reaching out to lapsed law firm donors to restart their donations and urges existing donors to continue with their much-needed support.
Anna Dunford, LLB Solicitor’s firm, Hadgkiss Hughes & Beale, currently donates its RCBs. She said: “The Solicitors’ Charity carries out vital work supporting solicitors in England and Wales. We have found that donating our unclaimed balances is simple, and we regularly encourage other firms to do the same. We’re thankful for the help the Charity provides to solicitors in need, and proud that our contributions make a difference”.
Nick Gallagher adds: “I think all firms will be very aware of unclaimed client balances because of the accounting rules, but they may not realise that they are able to donate them to The Solicitors’ Charity and that we give an absolute indemnity that they will get the money back if a client gets in touch in the future. The process for donating RCBs is very simple and straightforward. Send us an email, call us, or fill out the form on our website and we will support you through the process.
“Any single donation over £500 needs approval from the SRA, but we have the necessary forms and can talk you through them. When you’re ready to donate, you can send a cheque with a covering letter, or make a payment through BACS and we will send out an indemnity letter by return. It’s a very easy process, so please get in touch. Together, we can make a difference and improve the wellbeing of many people in the profession, and those who depend on them”.
