Diversity, Equality and Inclusion (DEI) sub-committee Annual Report 2023

Secretary: Manesha Ruparel (Alexander & Co Solicitors LLP)

Members: Sue Jennings (University of Derby), Joel Klaff (University of Derby), Natalie Haydon-Yeung (Geldards), Tina Attenborough (Attenborough Law Limited)

I am pleased to publish the first DDLS’ annual Diversity, Equality and Inclusion (DEI) subcommittee Annual Report.

Our committee at present is not diverse with the current president being the first president of colour since our society’s inception in 1886. Our aim is to build a positive, supportive, and inclusive culture where everyone is treated fairly, feel comfortable to be themselves and to get involved with our society.

We have met as a committee on a number of occasions to discuss a framework and we are currently in our infancy stage.

The purpose of the committee and the reasons for forming it are:

• To become a more inclusive and diverse society to reflect and represent members of the legal profession.

• There are a number of groups that are underrepresented in our current Law Society which we need to explore further to determine the reasons for the same.

• To share positive experiences to present role models for future generations of prospective legal professionals.

Issues that some of those that are unrepresented face are lack of integration; a sense of isolation, not being able to communicate issues as it may be perceived as taboo; and lack of role models to aspire to leading to a lacking in confidence to do the same.

Further exploration of the issues faced is necessary before we are able to set out a road map to work to solve the issues. A questionnaire has been prepared in collaboration with the University of Derby and data collection is soon to be underway to enable us to develop our objectives.

DEI was launched on 13 October 2022. The event was organised in collaboration with the University of Derby Student Law Society and panel members included, Hasnat Bashir (family barrister from St Ives Chambers), Vee Munro (barrister and former lecturer at Derby University) and Ashiedu Joel (cultural intelligence trainer) There is much to be done. Our aim for 20232024 is to develop a strategy setting out our objectives. This strategy will focus on progressing our DEI. Of course, ultimately it is our members who define our culture and drive our DEI agenda, so our members will play a key role in developing our next DEI strategy and help to make our society one that reflects the diverse community that we live in.

We have lost 3 members of our sub- committee due to retirement and members moving out of the area. If any members wish to be involved in this committee, please contact Manesha Ruparel by email MR@AandCo.co.uk

Manesha Ruparel Secretary