Herts Chamber of Commerce encourages businesses to support future magistrates

Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce is encouraging businesses to help support the next generation of magistrates.

The Magistrates Support Scheme was developed in 2021 by the former Hertfordshire High Sheriff, Lionel C. Wallace DL, and is hosted by the Chamber to increase the number of young people taking interest in the Magistracy.

Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce was the first member to sign up to the voluntary scheme.

Briege Leahy, Herts Chamber Chief Executive said: “Herts Chamber are delighted to support this important scheme across Hertfordshire for the judiciary. We understand the importance of having young people within the Magistracy and encourage all businesses to take up the scheme.”

The recognition initiative encourages employers to sign up to providing awareness of the role of magistrates and support sustainable engagement of volunteering to the Magistracy whilst inspiring others to do the same.

Magistrates are people who volunteer to hear court cases in their community. They are advised by a legal adviser in court who ensures they follow the accurate procedures.

Lionel C. Wallace DL, The High Sheriff of Hertfordshire from 2021 to 2022, said that the scheme “transforms how business is seen by the community in this crucial area of law and order.”

The scheme includes the Bronze, Silver and Gold award for employer organisations that pledge, demonstrate, or advocate support to the Magistracy community. Employers can sign themselves up for each award via the Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce website by filling out a form here.

Nominated employers must recognise that young people are often at an economic disadvantage when actively participating as a magistrate and pledge to encourage and facilitate young people’s participation.

To receive an award, employers should pledge to support existing or prospective employees who are members of the magistrates’ community, provide opportunities for employees to receive awareness training on the role of the magistrates or receive paid leave to support magistrate volunteering, and have clear positive policies towards magistrate volunteering.

Find out more about the scheme and the individual awards here.