Social impact

Arona St James Solicitors was founded in Walthamstow in 2000. From the outset, access to legal help has been regarded as a matter of dignity, not privilege. That history continues to inform how the firm supports clients and engages with its community.

Access to justice

The firm is committed to helping vulnerable and marginalised clients understand and exercise their legal rights. This includes immigration and asylum work, applications for a fee waiver where a person cannot afford the relevant Home Office fee, including clients with No Recourse to Public Funds, and legal support for LGBTQ+ people and those affected by domestic abuse.

Each matter is considered on its own facts. The support available will depend on the client’s circumstances, the law and the firm’s capacity and expertise.

Community roots in Walthamstow

Walthamstow has been the firm’s base since its foundation. Being part of a diverse local community helps the firm understand the practical, cultural and family circumstances that can shape a legal problem. The aim is to provide clear, respectful advice that clients can use to make informed decisions.

Pro bono and reduced-fee work

The firm considers pro bono and reduced-fee matters on a case-by-case basis where the circumstances warrant it. Any arrangement is subject to the nature of the matter, the client’s circumstances and the firm’s capacity, and cannot be guaranteed.

Working with vulnerable clients

The firm aims to work in a trauma-informed and sensitive way, recognising that clients may be dealing with abuse, persecution, displacement, bereavement or family breakdown. Where appropriate, this may include arranging interpreters, adapting communication to a client’s needs and allowing additional support during the legal process.

In matters where they are legally relevant, the firm considers human-rights protections, including the right to respect for private and family life under Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights. The relevance and strength of any argument depend on the individual facts and applicable law.

Diversity and inclusion

Arona St James Solicitors is committed to serving clients from all backgrounds without unlawful discrimination and to fostering an inclusive workplace. Clients should be treated with dignity and respect regardless of their race, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, disability, age, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, or other personal circumstances.

About Ovacome

Ovacome is the UK's national ovarian cancer support charity, set up by people living with ovarian cancer to provide support and information for anyone affected by the disease. For 30 years, Ovacome has existed to meet the needs of those diagnosed and their loved ones. Today, we are a community of tens of thousands of people, all working to improve care and support for those affected by this disease. We provide free support and information to anyone affected by ovarian cancer, including those with a diagnosis, their family members, friends and healthcare professionals. Our services include a telephone support line, online forum, support groups, health and wellbeing events, webinars, information resources and opportunities for people affected by ovarian cancer to connect with others who share similar experiences. Alongside this, we work to improve ovarian cancer care through policy and campaigning, ensuring the voices and experiences of people affected by ovarian cancer help shape healthcare services and decision-making. Every year we provide direct support to over 6,500 people through our support line and events. Nearly 80,000 people access our expert information materials.

The Debbie Baldwin Gala

Since its inception, the Debbie Baldwin Gala has raised an incredible £329,567.50 for Ovacome. These funds help ensure that anyone affected by ovarian cancer can access free emotional support, trusted information and a welcoming community at every stage of their experience. They also help us continue our work to improve ovarian cancer care across the UK by raising awareness, influencing policy and advocating for earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.

Why fundraising and awareness matter

Ovarian cancer is often diagnosed at a later stage because its symptoms – persistent bloating, feeling full more quickly, abdominal or pelvic pain, changes to toilet habits – can be mistaken for less serious conditions. Greater awareness of these symptoms can lead to earlier diagnosis, when treatment is often more effective and outcomes improved. Fundraising is equally important, enabling Ovacome to continue providing its life-changing support services while working to improve care and outcomes for everyone affected by ovarian cancer. As we receive no government funding, the generosity of supporters and events like the Debbie Baldwin Gala is essential in making this possible.

Get in touch

If you are seeking legal help or would like to enquire about a community collaboration, please use our contact page. We will consider your enquiry and explain whether and how the firm may be able to assist.