Regional Magistrates' Courts Act as National Role Model

The regional launches of the Magistrates Shadowing Scheme 2004, have enabled twelve cities around the United Kingdom to act as role models for a more inclusive and representative judiciary.

The 2004 scheme will allow over 100 people from Black and other ethnic minority communities around the country to shadow over two hundred magistrates for a period of 6 months. The project aims to help address the deficit of Black and other ethnic minorities within the magistracy.

Yemi Bryan, a Leicester Shadow said: "I am very pleased to be part of the scheme as it provides a window into the magistracy. I am interested in becoming a magistrate and believe that eradicating discrimination and ensuring fairness will be achieved by Black and minority ethnic communities being part of the decision-making process.

Nick Watson, District Legal Director said:"The Leicester Magistrates' Court is very pleased to have been chosen to participate in this exciting initiative. The Lord Chancellor's Advisory Committee is determined to ensure the bench better reflects the community it serves. It is also important that the members of the public understand the work of the courts and how they can be involved. The scheme will help us to achieve both these goals."

Simon Woolley, of Operation Black Vote stated: "We are very excited about re-launching the Magistrates' Shadowing Scheme and expanding the scheme to incorporate five new areas. The commitment demonstrated by the magistrates' courts and the shadows will ensure that all communities play a full and positive role within our judiciary."

The 2004 Magistrates' Shadowing Scheme areas are: Leicester, Bradford, Nottingham, Derby & South Derbyshire, Merseyside, London, Walsall, Birmingham, Vale of Glamorgan/Cardiff, Burnley, Oxford and Watford.