This year long pilot project, launched in October 2011, tests a new model for funding strategic litigation that promotes the rights of refugee and asylum seeking children and young people in England and Wales.
 
The SLF supports pre-litigation research and third party interventions across a range of areas of law that benefit refugee children and young people including asylum, immigration, social welfare, human rights and education. A total of £300,000 has been made available until September 2012 when the pilot is due to end. 
 
The SLF is assisted by an Expert Panel of legal practitioners and policy experts, which provides recommendations and guidance on the development of the project. Manjit Gill QC chairs the Expert Panel to the SLF.
 
The pilot is funded by The Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fund, delivered in partnership with Trust for London, and managed by MigrationWork CIC. It may be extended and/or its remit widened if it is successful.
 
Legal aid solicitors and specialist legal advisers working in not for profit organisations can apply to the SLF for assistance if other public funding for strategic litigation is not available. For further details about the Fund and how to apply see www.migrationwork.org/strategic-legal-fund.