Legal clinics helping those with vital advice at the toughest time

 

Lingen Davies has helped set up free legal clinics for people affected by cancer across Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin, and Mid Wales to seek advice.

A monthly clinic is held in the Hamar Centre at the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital by a solicitor from a regional firm who volunteers their time to help with any aspect of advice needed.

The fantastic solicitors who give one hour a month each are Rachel Stokes from PCB, Sophie Price from Fodens, Edward Rees of Lanyon Bowlder and Jemma Blake from Martin Kaye solicitors.

People who have cancer often face a range of legal issues that can significantly impact their lives and treatment.

These issues may include disputes over health insurance coverage, employment rights and discrimination, estate planning, and the need for advanced directives like living wills, legacies and powers of attorney.

Lingen Davies appreciates that for someone being treated for cancer, the stress of legal problems is the last thing they need to be worrying about and not at all the focus for them day to day.

We appreciate that navigating the complexities of disability benefits and understanding the intricacies of healthcare laws can be particularly challenging during such a vulnerable time.

Therefore, the chance to seek advice from legal experts is hugely beneficial. These professionals can provide tailored guidance to ensure patients’ rights are protected, help secure necessary benefits and alleviate some of the stress and uncertainty, allowing patients to focus more fully on their health and wellbeing.

The advice can be about anything that may be causing immediate concern, anxiety or distress as a result of their diagnosis.

The clinics began in November 2023 and each one runs from 12pm – 4pm with a limited number of 20 -minute appointments on each occasion, which are allocated on a first come first served basis.

Naomi Atkin, CEO of Lingen Davies, said a very big thanks to the legal professionals who are giving their time to this campaign.

“When someone is given a cancer diagnosis it impacts on every part of their life including their friends and families. Many people are unable to work, finances are affected, and this has such a knock on impact for everything,” she said.

“These clinics make a difference to people, giving them free access to legal professionals to discuss any concerns they have in light of their cancer diagnosis.

“We hope people are able to take advantage of this service and would like to thank all the professionals who volunteer their time for these legal clinics.

“We and the patient’s we help greatly appreciate it!”

Booking for legal clinics is essential – email [email protected] or contact the office on 01743 492396.