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And while the pink pound refers to money at the disposal of gay men and women, the Pink Law practice at Queen Mary鈥檚 University will be offered free-of-charge.

It is aimed at those who are lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) who need legal advice on issues from employment discrimination to civil partnerships and living together.

Julie Pinborough, who runs the university's legal advice centre explained: "We researched the local area and looked at where we thought there was a void.

"We actually found there was not a service in London that provided the level of advice that we could provide for the LGBT community."

Benefit all parties

Law students from Queen Mary's will offer help under the watchful eye of qualified lawyers from Field Fisher Waterhouse, Reed Smith and Mischon de Reya.

A top judge backs the scheme

Ms Pinborough explained that the centre operated in a way which meant all parties got as much out of it as possible.

"It works on an appointment system so the students get the chance to research the issues that affect the client.

"The area of civil partnerships is new and some people don't really understand them.

"A lot of couples are entering them and some are starting to come out of them so we are doing a lot of work in that area."

'Ethical approach'

People from as far away as Leeds and Manchester have expressed an interest in this unique service.

Ms Pinborough went on: "It鈥檚 a win-win situation for all parties involved, including the law firms.

"Obviously the students can put law into practice. They are learning the skills they need for the future and developing a very ethical approach that they can carry on through their careers.

"For the community it's offering confidential advice for free that they can get nowhere else.

'Dealing with discrimination'

The pro bono service is being launched with the backing of Mr Justice Fulford, who is the first openly gay judge in the country.

And the gay rights campaign group Stonewall has also offered its support.

Helen Ward, Stonewall information officer said: "Stonewall receives many calls to our information service from lesbian, gay and bisexual people who need legal advice and assistance.

"It's encouraging that Queen Mary University is offering a free legal service to ensure that LGB people can access the help they need when dealing with discrimination."