When Naweed Hussain took his seat on the magistrates’ bench last year, he was continuing a lifelong commitment to serving his community.
The Leeds Trinity University policing lecturer, who became a magistrate in 2025, is now encouraging others across Yorkshire and the North East to consider volunteering for one of the most important roles in the justice system.
Speaking during Volunteers’ Week (1-7 June), Naweed said becoming a magistrate has been one of the most rewarding experiences of his life, allowing him to make a meaningful difference while helping to deliver justice fairly and efficiently.
Inspired by years of volunteering in youth work, environmental projects and community regeneration initiatives, Naweed saw the magistracy as an opportunity to give back on a different level.
“Volunteering has always been part of who I am, but becoming a magistrate was my first experience of formal volunteering and it’s been one of the most meaningful things I’ve ever done,” he said.
“I wanted to give something back to society in a way that truly mattered, and sitting as a magistrate allows me to do exactly that.
“At the end of a day in court, you genuinely feel that you’ve done something worthwhile for your community.”
Growing up in West Yorkshire gave Naweed a strong understanding of the challenges faced by local communities, but he says serving in court has provided an even deeper insight into people’s lives and circumstances.
“Being a magistrate gives you a real insight into the challenges people face, and the opportunity to make fair, balanced decisions that can change lives,” he said.
Naweed believes it is essential that magistrates reflect the diversity of the communities they serve.
“It’s vital that magistrates reflect the communities they serve. Different backgrounds bring different perspectives, and that leads to better justice.
“Seeing someone who looks like you on the bench shows that the magistracy is something ordinary people can be part of.”
Alongside his duties in court, Naweed has worked to raise awareness of the role by organising court visits and speaking to students in schools, colleges and universities. Through his involvement with Magistrates in the Community, he hopes to inspire more people to consider volunteering.
He is particularly keen to dispel the myth that magistrates need legal qualifications.
“You don’t need a legal background. Your life experience, common sense and willingness to learn are what really matter,” he said.
“The role challenges you, stretches you and teaches you how to listen, negotiate and make objective decisions.
“It’s a steep learning curve, but it’s also an incredibly rewarding journey and one I’d recommend to anyone who wants to give back.”
Across England and Wales, around 14,500 people volunteer as magistrates, hearing cases and making decisions that affect individuals, families and communities. Magistrates come from all walks of life and receive full training, mentoring and ongoing support.
The Ministry of Justice is currently encouraging more people aged 18 and over to apply, helping to ensure courts can continue delivering justice swiftly and fairly for victims and communities alike.
Sarah Sackman KC MP, Minister of State for Courts and Legal Services, praised the contribution made by magistrates during Volunteers’ Week.
She said: “This Volunteers’ Week, I want to recognise the vital contribution magistrates make to our justice system and to the communities they serve. Their commitment is fundamental to delivering justice fairly.
“Becoming a magistrate is also an opportunity to develop valuable skills and experience, while making a real difference. If you are looking for a meaningful way to give back, I would strongly encourage you to consider applying.”
Anyone interested in becoming a magistrate can find out more and register their interest through the Ministry of Justice’s magistrate recruitment programme.
