Baroness Lawrence ‘honoured’ by university doctorate

Baroness Lawrence of Clarendon, who has campaigned tirelessly to gain justice following the murder of her son 20 years ago, will be presented with the doctorate next month.

She was nominated by staff from the university’s department of law and criminology.

Sheffield Hallam said the award celebrated its relationship with Baroness Lawrence as the university is a key supporter of the Freshfields Stephen Lawrence Scholarship Scheme set up to address the lack of black men from low-income households pursuing a career at leading London law firms.

Sheffield Hallam is one of only 15 universities taking part in the scholarship scheme set up by the Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust.

The scholarship sees successful candidates receive support including £3,500 per year contribution towards living expenses, mentoring and training, as well as opportunities to spend time at a top law firm.

They will also be guaranteed a training contract interview with Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP.

Sital Dhillon, head of law and criminology at Sheffield Hallam, said: “We are delighted to confer this award to Baroness Lawrence of Clarendon. She is an iconic figure who has tirelessly campaigned for justice for her son Stephen.

“She shares a dedicated vision with Sheffield Hallam in her unfaltering commitment to encouraging more young black students to pursue careers with leading law firms in London.”

Baroness Lawrence of Clarendon said: “I would like to thank Sheffield Hallam University for bestowing this honour on me.

“I am honoured that the university holds me in such high esteem.”