Celebrating National Volunteers’ Week 2026 at Foot Anstey

National Volunteers’ Week offers a moment to reflect on the role volunteering plays across the Foot Anstey Group, and celebrate the impact our people make in our communities.

Volunteering sits at the heart of our responsible business approach. Whether through pro bono legal advice or community-based initiatives, our people use their time, skills and experience to support those who need it most.

In the past year alone, colleagues contributed 1,558 hours of volunteering time outside of pro bono work. From acting as trustees to charities to mentoring young people, these contributions demonstrate a shared commitment to making a tangible difference.

An opportunity for skills development

Volunteering provides an opportunity to step outside day-to-day roles and build new capabilities. Many of our people highlight increased confidence, stronger communication skills and enhanced leadership as key benefits.

Laura Rajanah, reflecting on her experience volunteering with students through our strategic charity partner Young Enterprise, said:

“It is a good change of audience from our current day jobs and gives perspective for how our well-honed corporate training can be passed on to others and influence them.”

Professional development is only one side of the coin. Volunteering also brings a strong sense of personal fulfilment and contributes to positive wellbeing. It enables colleagues to connect across teams, broaden networks and experience the immediate positive impact of their efforts.

Supporting the next generation

Over the past year, our partnership with Young Enterprise has provided a clear example of the difference volunteering can make. Our people have supported more than 20 events and initiatives, coaching student businesses, judging competitions and sharing insights into career pathways.

The impact on young people has been significant, helping them to build confidence, improve their communication skills and see new possibilities for their futures. One student reflected that the experience “inspired me to be more ambitious and confident in my skills”, while another noted the reassurance that “there’s always a way to get to your goal”.

For our volunteers, the experience is equally valuable. Peter Singfield, Partner, described the students he worked with as “deeply inspiring, energetic and charismatic”, adding “I’m so glad I did it.”

Improving access to justice

By providing legal support to charities, community organisations and individuals, we help improve access to justice and strengthen the organisations that underpin our communities.

Our work spans a wide range of matters. From supporting charities like Aid Box Community with complex property transactions, through to representing individuals during critical legal processes.

For many of our lawyers, pro bono is both a great way to develop but also brings a deep sense of satisfaction: Emily Hooper, Associate, shared:

“Pro bono matters have been an integral element of my development… Using my legal skills to advise and assist those who are really in need of it gives me so much joy.”

Looking ahead

As National Volunteers’ Week draws to a close, the message across Foot Anstey is clear – volunteering benefits everyone. It strengthens communities, develops our people and reinforces the purpose behind what we do.

Find out more about our approach to Responsible Business.