Brent Councillor Honoured with Honorary Doctorate

A highly successful lawyer, Councillor Sheth has worked for the Law Society and some of the country’s leading law firms, including Charles Russell, and Bull & Bull. He has also chaired the Social Security and Child Support Appeal Tribunal and is currently chair of the Valuation Tribunal for England, the government body that deals with land and property disputes. In 2022 he was awarded a Law Fellowship by the Royal Docks School of Business and Law, UEL.

A long-standing member of Brent Council Councillor Sheth is highly regarded in local government and widely known for his work supporting the most vulnerable people in his community, with the values of equality, diversity and inclusion at the heart of his efforts. His championing of community initiatives and his advocacy for the wellbeing of Brent residents have played a pivotal role in shaping the borough and have contributed significantly to its growth and prosperity.

His care for the disadvantaged is perhaps best illustrated by his efforts following the Grenfell fire, when Councillor Sheth helped lead on the work supporting those affected by the tragedy, building inclusive partnerships with local communities and faith groups. His visits to those affected by the disaster were often heart-breaking but he never ceased to be inspired by their spirit and resilience.

Another example of Councillor Sheth’s leadership was seen during the pandemic, when he helped coordinate a Covid vaccination campaign across north-west London, chairing regular meetings of NHS staff, local government, and colleagues from public health. Working with the Jason Robert Foundation and subsequently with The Advocacy Project and Healthwatch, he also helped run a series of well-attended public webinars aimed at people furthest from decision-making. The success of this partnership approach, involving both public and voluntary bodies, led to this model being used to help with the delivery of local NHS services over the last two winters, when strains on the health service are at their most acute.

He has spoken frequently about his work, stressing the importance of involving local communities in decisions that affect them, 

I believe that our communities have the right to be involved in decisions about their local public services, especially in ethnically and culturally diverse populations as we have in London, because our communities are best in providing the right solutions to tackle inequalities and disparities.”

Speaking after the award of the honorary degree by UEL, Councillor Sheth expressed his gratitude to the university and the wider community, saying, 

I am deeply honoured to receive this prestigious accolade. It reflects the collaborative efforts of our entire community in working towards a brighter future. This recognition only strengthens my resolve to continue serving with passion and purpose."

UEL offers several courses in Law, Justice and Policing, from LLB Business Law to LLM Human Rights Advocacy.