HSF introduces new global commitment focusing on disability inclusion

Herbert Smith Freehills (HSF) has introduced a new Global Adjustments Commitment that focuses on disability inclusion in honour of #PurpleLightUp 2021.

“Building on the firm's ongoing efforts to prioritise disability inclusion, the new commitment combines the importance of championing disability with tangible actions that will improve working conditions for any individual with a disability,” the firm explained.

Under the commitment, the firm will facilitate the implementation of both physical and non-physical tailored adjustments to working environments based on each employee’s personal needs. Adjustments can involve alternative or additional equipment or tech, a modified work process and flexibility when it comes to leave entitlements each year.

“There are almost 400 million individuals with disabilities across the globe, but if employers fail to create environments conducive to their needs they risk losing out on vast swathes of untapped talent,” HSF CEO Justin D'Agostino said. “By recognising the power of diversity and inclusion we believe we will be in a better position to drive innovation, collaboration and better business decisions – but, above all, by leading for inclusion through our new commitment, we will be enabling our people to be their unique selves every day.”

The firm implemented the Global Adjustments Commitment throughout HSF’s international network on Friday.

“Our commitment to ensuring a diverse and inclusive culture throughout the firm remains steadfast and it is only by embracing our differences – and what makes each of us unique – that allows us to achieve better outcomes for our people and our clients in a fast-changing world,” D'Agostino said.

#PurpleLightUp spotlights the contribution of disabled employees to the economy. HSF is also working with Purple Space, Valuable 500 and IncludeAbility.