The University of Aberdeen recently welcomed back Shared Parenting Scotland to train Law students in the role of Lay Supporter.
The charity is helping bridge a gap in the support available to Scottish parents who are representing themselves in Family Law Court hearings.
Lay Supporters are non-solicitors who assist those representing themselves (party litigants) in civil court hearings. They can provide moral support, take notes of proceedings and organise documents but cannot speak on the behalf of the party litigant.
Shared Parenting Scotland delivered their training to 13 student volunteers from third and fourth year Law School undergraduates to Postgraduate Diploma in Professional Legal Practice students.
Participants took part in a full day’s training which included workshops and role play designed to equip them with the skills needed to act as lay supporters in the context of Family Law Court hearings where a party is seeking an order in relation to a child
“This was the second training session of this kind that has been delivered by Shared Parenting Scotland at the University of Aberdeen and it has been well received by those who took part,” said Kirsty Wilson, lecturer in Law at the University of Aberdeen.
“We are pleased to support the charity in this way. The training has not only equipped our Law students with knowledge and skills to further their legal experience, but students volunteering through Shared Parenting Scotland as a Lay Supporter will be providing valuable support to parents at what can be a challenging time.”
Alastair Williamson, Shared Parenting Scotland outreach manager, said: “It was an excellent day. It is a boost for us to be able to draw on the commitment and enthusiasm of the students who want to take on this important role in the Family Court system.
“Being a Party Litigant in court can be a lonely and stressful experience so having a Lay Supporter beside you can give you strength and encouragement to present your case."
