Edinburgh Law students deliver £13,000 in tax relief for vulnerable clients through Scottish Tax Clinic

Students at Edinburgh Law School have successfully appealed over £13,000 of late filing penalties while delivering nearly 400 hours of pro bono support through the Scottish Tax Clinic this academic year.

The student-led initiative means-tested, free, confidential tax advice to individuals based in Scotland on matters of income tax. Through their work, students have supported clients across a wide range of issues, including submitting tax returns, issuing guidance, and correcting tax codes — delivering tangible, life-changing outcomes.

With cases continuing through to May, the clinic’s impact is expected to grow further.

The Scottish Tax Clinic reflects Edinburgh Law School’s commitment to combining academic excellence with real-world impact. By working directly with clients, students develop practical legal and professional skills while contributing to addressing access to justice challenges within the UK tax system.

This year, students have supported individuals experiencing significant barriers, including digital exclusion, mental health challenges, long-term illness, physical disabilities, language barriers, and circumstances involving potential abuse. Their work has helped clients navigate a system that can otherwise lead to serious financial hardship and debt.

Dr Amy Lawton said: "I am incredibly proud of the work that all the clinic students have done this year: they have changed the lives of many clients. For low-income individuals, late filing penalties have a significant financial impact that often result from genuine barriers to accessing the UK tax system. The students’ commitment, empathy, and determination have helped to remove some of those barriers and ensure that clients receive the support they deserve."

The clinic is supported by a dedicated network of professional supervisors, whose expertise underpins both the quality of advice provided and the student learning experience. Their contribution is central to the continued success of the programme.

Edinburgh Law School is keen to hear from ATT and CTA-qualified professionals interested in supporting the next generation of legal professionals while helping to expand access to vital tax advice. If you are interested in volunteering some time to supervise our students in the clinic, and support low-income taxpayers, then please email amy.lawton@ed.ac.uk.