- The Employment Legal Advice service offers free employment-related legal support to Greater Manchester residents.
- The service is a joint initiative between the Growth Company, Citizens Advice Manchester, Citizens Advice Bolton, Citizens Advice Salford, and a network of local legal partners.
- To mark Pro Bono Week, Melissa told us how the support of the service helped her overcome legal issues with her employer.
Next week is Pro Bono Week, an opportunity to recognise and support the voluntary contribution made by the legal profession across the UK in giving free legal help to those in need.
To mark the occasion, we’re sharing the story of how the Employment Legal Advice Service helped Melissa overcome a difficult period in her life after facing employment related legal challenges.
Melissa came to the Employment Legal Advice Service after experiencing issues with her employer, which resulted in her taking sick leave in October 2023.
Facing financial struggles due to the loss of her salary, Melissa found herself increasingly stressed. She reached out to several charities for support but discovered there was little help available to her.
Soon after, Melissa contacted the Employment Legal Advice Service and was put in touch with triage coordinator, Mark, who offered a listening ear and a safe space for Melissa to share her experiences.
Mark gave advice and guidance and referred Melissa for a pro bono appointment with one of the service’s partner solicitors. The support provided by Mark gave Melissa the courage to challenge her employer and allowed her to move forward with her life.
Reflecting on her experience with ELAS, Melissa said: “This service saved my life. I had been searching for help for weeks. I sent the Employment Legal Advice Service an email explaining my situation they called me the same day. Mark who I had spoken to was extremely helpful and took his time with me as I was extremely anxious, but his calm manner, but professional approach left me at ease.
“He also referred me for 30 minutes with a solicitor to discuss my issue further. Because I am experiencing financial hardship at present, I was so happy there was some guidance available without being faced with any fees.”
Employment Legal Advice Service
Whether you are worried about your rights, redundancy proceedings, pay issues, contractual terms, or ongoing disputes, Employment Legal Advice can set you on the right track.
The service is a joint venture by the Growth Company, Citizens Advice Manchester, Citizens Advice Bolton, Citizens Advice Salford, and a network of local legal partners. It aims to help people across Greater Manchester to access free and timely employment-related support provided by experts in the field.
Find Out More
Visit the Employment Legal Advice website for more information.