Linklaters Warsaw provided pro bono support for Fundacja Dajemy Dzieciom Sile's  purchase of a property, earmarked to be the first specialist support centre for children in Poland. The Linklaters team has been advising the foundation since the beginning of the project, providing free legal advice on real estate and tax law.

Lawyers supported the foundation in conducting a due diligence of the property, negotiating the contract of sale, and finalising the property purchase transaction. We will also support the foundation after the opening of the Child Advocacy Centre, which is planned for the end of 2017. The team consisted of Ewelina Laskowska-Zolw, Senior Associate and Mateusz Cieslak, Junior Associate from the Real Estate practice and Jan Jurga, Tax Paralegal.

The foundation has experience of helping abused children. The Child Advocacy Centre will offer comprehensive psychological and medical support to the youngest victims. Parents whose children are referred to the centre will also be able to use psychological and legal consultations. The Warsaw centre was inspired by Scandinavian "Barnahus" and "Child Advocacy Centres" in the US.

Artur Kulawski, Managing Partner, Warsaw, said: "The foundation is building a support centre for the children, which will inspired by tried-and-tested solutions from similar centres all around the world. I am glad that we can participate in this project, sharing our knowledge and experience."

"Pro bono legal aid is one way we can enhance our reputation as a responsible business, which is part of our refreshed strategy. We undertake pro bono work because we appreciate the role of non-profit organisations in building social capital and it helps us to provide a real contribution to the development of socially responsible business."

Fundacja Dajemy Sile Dzieciom (The Empowering Children Foundation) aims to give all children a safe childhood and ensure they are treated in a manner that respects their dignity. It protects children from abuse and assists those who have experienced violence to know their rights, believe in themselves and enjoy life. It supports parents and guardians on their path towards good parenthood, as well as professionals who work with children.

Monika Sajkowska, President of Fundacja Dajemy Dzieciom Sile, said: "The Linklaters' support is invaluable. The team was highly competent and donated their valuable time so that we can start helping children at a specialist, professional facility this year."