Story
Sarah Lily Brunsdon
A victim of family breakdown Sarah was made homeless at the age of 15. Transferred into a "safe" young person's setting Sarah was raped then seeking refuge at Liverpool’s Powerhouse, a provider of supported accommodation for young people. Whilst Sarah was battling with GCSEs and “A” levels she "sofa-surfed" finally moving into temporary vulnerable housing. Despite these appalling situations, Sarah managed to achieve excellent grades obtaining degrees from the University of Liverpool and Central Lancashire.
A need for justice
Having completed her MA in social policy and subsequently becoming a consultant in homelessness prevention Sarah's life changed again as she became a victim of an abusive relationship resulting in a court case. Sarah found court an overwhelming experience. Leading up to the case, Sarah was subject to daily welfare checks as well as having her injuries photographed secretly by Merseyside Police.
I can honestly say the court experience was more traumatic than any of the multiple assaults and injuries I suffered. It was terrifying, humiliating and there was not a single empowering moment, not even [my ex-partner's] guilty verdict. It is because of this personal experience that I am determined to reclaim the justice system, the courtroom, and the process every survivor has to endure. I want to make a difference and to do so I need to be in a position of authority and, importantly, empowerment in the courtroom.
Sarah Lily Brunsdon, 15 May 2021
Along with her background, this unsettling court case played a significant part in Sarah's decision to help others suffering from underrepresentation. Sarah is determined that others will not suffer any loss of control or disenfranchisement that she faced in court.
Sarah's dilemma
Without a law degree, Sarah needs to undertake a pre-qualification which attracts no government loans or scholarships. A small donation of a few pounds permits Sarah to undertake this course allowing her to take the LLM. (Although a law degree costs £13,000 it does attract government loans and the possibility of a scholarship.)
