Southwark Law Centre is celebrating national recognition after Van Ferguson was named Legal Aid Social Welfare Lawyer of the Year at the 2026 Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year (LALY) Awards.
The award recognises Van’s outstanding contribution to social welfare law and his exceptional work representing Windrush survivors, as well as people facing homelessness, immigration problems and other complex legal challenges.
Van is widely recognised as one of the UK’s leading experts on the Windrush Compensation Scheme. Over many years, he has secured life-changing outcomes for clients, pursued complex strategic litigation and helped improve access to justice for Windrush claimants nationally. His work has challenged barriers within the compensation scheme and influenced how claims are considered, ensuring that more people can receive the justice they deserve.
Southwark Law Centre is also delighted that Debbie Yates was shortlisted for Legal Aid Support Staffer of the Year.
Debbie’s expertise in legal aid billing and practice management has been instrumental in ensuring the Law Centre can continue delivering high-quality legal services to thousands of people every year. Her meticulous attention to detail, extensive knowledge of legal aid systems and unwavering support for colleagues make her an invaluable member of the team, and her national recognition is richly deserved.
Stacey Edgar, Executive Director of Southwark Law Centre, said:
“We are absolutely thrilled that Van has been recognised as Legal Aid Social Welfare Lawyer of the Year. This award reflects not only his exceptional legal expertise but also his unwavering commitment to securing justice for people who have been let down by the systems that are meant to protect them.
“We are equally proud of Debbie. Anyone who has worked with her knows the extraordinary contribution she makes behind the scenes. Her knowledge, dedication and professionalism help make our work possible, and we are delighted to see that recognised through her LALY nomination.
“These achievements reflect the talent, commitment and values of the whole Southwark Law Centre team. Congratulations to both Van and Debbie on this fantastic national recognition.”
The Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year Awards celebrate the outstanding lawyers and support professionals who dedicate their careers to ensuring that everyone, regardless of their means, can access justice.
Everyone at Southwark Law Centre extends their warmest congratulations to Van and Debbie on these well-deserved achievements.