The Aberdeen Law Project is delighted to announce that Lord Reed, President of the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom, has accepted an invitation to become a patron of the Project.

Robert John Reed, Lord Reed of Allermuir took up appointment as President of the Supreme Court on 13 January 2020, succeeding Lady Hale. Prior to his appointment as President, Lord Reed served as Deputy President of the Supreme Court from June 2018 after first being appointed as a Justice in February 2012. Lord Reed studied at the University of Edinburgh after which he undertook doctoral research in law at the University of Oxford.

Lord Reed said: “The Aberdeen Law Project is a remarkable student-led project. Its volunteers provide a vital link between the community and the legal system, by improving access to justice and by working with schools, prisons, the police, women’s aid and other organisations. I am filled with admiration for the passion and dedication of the students involved.”

Anna Robertson, commenting on behalf of the board, said: “To have such an esteemed member of the legal community become a patron of the Project is such wonderful news. A further encouragement to our students that making a difference in our communities matters and is acknowledged.”

Helena Siebenrock, Student Director, said: “Lord Reed’s acceptance of our invitation is fantastic news and a very profound honour. It’s an absolute privilege to have such a remarkable legal figure become a patron. I know I speak for the whole team when I say how much Lord Reed’s comments about our work and the energy we put into it mean. Improving access to justice and doing more for local communities is what we’re passionate about – but passion is only part of the equation and it’s the support of our patrons that makes all the difference and really helps us drive our work forward.”

ALP is grateful for continuing financial support from the University of Aberdeen Development Trust.