Scheme aims to improve diversity in the legal profession
Aspiring UK lawyers facing certain challenges have been urged to apply to the Law Society’s diversity access scheme, reported the Law Society Gazette.
The scheme aims to help improve social mobility and diversity in the legal profession by supporting people who face exceptional social, educational, financial or personal obstacles to qualifying as a lawyer. Recruitment for the 2023 cohort opened on Feb. 22.
The scheme, which has supported 300 trainees so far, is open to those looking to complete the Legal Practice Course or Solicitors Qualifying Exam who need help with funding, accessing real work experience opportunities or meaningful mentoring and might otherwise struggle to get the support they need to succeed, the Gazette reported.
One of last year’s successful applicants to the diversity access scheme told the Gazette: “The Diversity Access Scheme has allowed me to gain my confidence again after having doubts about my future as solicitor.
“As an awardee, I have felt immensely supported by the Law Society and my mentor. The opportunity to undertake work experience at different law firms and in-house organisations means that I can build valuable skills whilst studying. Being part of a DAS cohort also means connecting with a range of different people, which made me feel like I am not alone in this process.”
The recruitment process closes on April 16.
Law Society president Lubna Shuja told the Gazette: “Our profession needs talented, driven individuals from diverse backgrounds to thrive. I encourage any aspiring solicitor who is facing particular challenges on their way to qualification to consider applying for a place on the scheme.
“I am immensely proud of our DAS awardees and all they’ve achieved. Many are from less advantaged backgrounds, almost a third are disabled and over two-fifths are Black, Asian or minority ethnic.”
