John Stevenson, the MP for Carlisle, is encouraging young adults to volunteer as magistrates, to help with the current shortage at Cumbria’s three courts in Carlisle, Workington and Barrow.
With 25 new volunteers needed for the criminal court and 15 for the family court required by the end of this year, people from all walks of life are being encouraged to serve their local community by volunteering as a magistrate.
Legal qualifications are not required for the role of a volunteer magistrate, with full training and support being provided to all volunteers. The voluntary positions are open to 18-65 year olds, however young adults in particular are being encouraged to apply, as the role with enable them to learn new transferable skills, which they can later use in their future careers.
John Stevenson said: “Volunteering as a magistrate will enable individuals to develop important skills for their future careers, including decision making, leadership and teamwork. It will also provide them with more knowledge about their local community”.
More information about volunteering as a magistrate can be found online at: https://magistrates.judiciary.uk/
