14 June 2024
Centenary Bursary Scheme 2024 launched
The Law Society of Northern Ireland is delighted to announce the launch of its Centenary Bursary Scheme 2024.
The Scheme was introduced in 2023 as part of a legacy project to mark the Society’s Centenary year with the aim of broadening access to the profession by supporting Trainee Solicitors without the means to finance their place at the Institute of Professional Legal Studies (IPLS).
Following the success of the pilot initiative, the Society has committed to funding the bursary again and is inviting applications.
Commenting on the launch of the bursary scheme the President of the Law Society of Northern Ireland, Darren Toombs said:
“The bursary scheme underscores our commitment to finding new ways to support those from disadvantaged backgrounds who wish to become part of the solicitor profession in Northern Ireland.”
The first recipients of bursary awards Chiara Clarke and Sorcha Davidson joined the President at the launch of the scheme at Law Society House.
Commenting on her bursary award in 2023, Chiara Clarke said:
“I was so delighted to have been awarded the bursary which gave me the financial support and reassurance to allow me to undertake the IPLS course”.
Her views were echoed by Sorcha Davidson who said:
“The bursary award opened doors for me as a single mum with a young son with a disability. I have always had the passion to become a solicitor but not the financial means and being awarded the bursary changed my life”.
The application process for the 2024 bursary scheme is open to those who have:
1. A conditional place at the IPLS
2. Secured a training contract and
3. Who are ready to start the trainee solicitor programme in September 2024.
For further information and to download the relevant forms please go to https://www.lawsoc-ni.org/bursary-scheme-2024
Gallery
Darren Toombs, President and Chiara Clarke