Founder of Legal Lifelines Michael Herford says: “We know that BAME people as well as minority communities such as travellers are likely to experience disproportionately negative outcomes at work, or when engaging with the authorities. We aim to empower them with the knowledge they need to protect themselves by bringing them critical information on legal is- sues that affect them such as Stop and Search, County Lines, Human Slavery and Protest Law.

I’ll be presenting a Webinar Programme with some of the best legal minds in the sector as well as engaging with young people, charities and BAME community members to under- stand what their needs are and how best to support them.

Michael, 38 was born in Bristol to a father of Black Caribbean heritage and a White English mother. Michael has been self employed for 8 of the 10 years he has worked as a Criminal Law practitioner, this year being recognised in the prestigious Legal 500 as: “a truly excellent solicitor: charismatic, energetic and engaging”. He said:

“I had no help or connections and was often told I would not succeed and was not able to work in a challenging profession such as law. I need to work with my community to encour- age young people to come forward and to believe they can have fulfilling lives as members of this society. Despite the challenges, together, we can do it! In community, we achieve unity, and in unity, we have strength. This initiative will change many lives and I believe will help save lives too.”

Michael added: “I myself have been stopped and searched and understand personally, how degrading and scary it can be when protocols are not followed by those conducting the search and other invasive operations. The webinar is the first in a series of providing tools of empowerment to the community we proudly want to serve.”