The Law Society’s Diversity & Inclusion Framework

EQUALITY, DIVERSITY & INCLUSION

The Law Society’s Diversity & Inclusion Framework

The Law Society have launched a new Diversity and Inclusion Framework to serve as a roadmap for workplaces to develop and deliver a strategic approach to D&I.

Figures released from their Annual Statistics Report 2021 found that while there has been some improvement with increasing diversity in the legal profession, there’s still work to be done. Solicitors from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds reached 18%, while Black, Asian and minority ethnic solicitors working in private practice increased by 6%. However, nearly a third of sole practitioners are from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds. These solicitors often make the move to sole practice due to barriers to progression to senior levels at larger law firms.

The aim of the Law Society’s framework is to guide individuals and firms through three steps to deliver a strategic approach and action plan, which are shown below. They have included an action plan template, as well as links to additional guidance and resources for more detailed help. If you are already taking action, it will help you review and identify any gaps or areas for ongoing purpose.

Step 1 – establish purpose

Establishing your purpose for advancing diversity and inclusion (D&I) is a crucial step. You will need to continually refer to this as you communicate, review and refine your D&I strategy and actions.

Step 2 – develop a plan

Having purpose for diversity and inclusion (D&I) on its own does not automatically ensure benefits for your firm. Purpose needs to be followed by good and robust actions.

Step 3 – ensure performance

Your diversity and inclusion (D&I) initiatives need good governance, transparency and recognition to ensure they are effectively implemented, regularly monitored, learning is applied and improvement happens.

The Law Society are also keen to share examples of best practice that have actually worked. If you are interested in submitting a D&I impact story to be featured on the TLS website please visit: https://email.lawsociety.org.uk/ s/3d6debdf8bee860c1e6126 54829b1e251f16674e.

To learn more about the Framework, please visit: www.lawsociety.org.uk/topics/diversity-andinclusion-framework/. ■