News
BCLP Ranks in UK Social Mobility Employer Index
Nov 24, 2021International law firm BCLP has ranked ninth in the 2021 UK Social Mobility Employer Index (the Index).
The Index is an important benchmarking initiative that ranks some of Britain’s largest employers on the actions they are taking to support, attract and develop talent from less privileged backgrounds. Accelerating social mobility is an important commitment for BCLP and this is the fifth consecutive year the firm has featured in the top 10 of the Index.
Partner and Social Inclusion & Ethnicity Group Co-Chair Tim Smith commented:
“We are delighted to feature once again in the top 10 of the UK Social Mobility Employer Index, as we have done each year the rankings have been published. This ranking is a recognition of the enthusiasm, efforts and commitment of so many colleagues across BCLP who feel passionate about broadening access to opportunities in the legal profession and our related business services. We are proud of our longstanding commitment to improving social mobility and widening participation. Whilst the journey is far from over, these efforts have helped us to reach, support, hire and develop a broader and more diverse pool of talent.”
This year, notable activities in the UK to support the firm’s efforts in increasing social mobility includes:
- BCLP Career Kick Start, a work experience programme, delivered as part of the firm’s commitment to the PRIME initiative, to provide Year 12 students from low income backgrounds with a detailed insight into what it’s like to work in a City law firm;
- BCLP Potential, an early careers inspiration online hub aimed at students between 15 and 19 years old with an interest in law. The interactive platform provides students with practical skills and information; and
- Aspiring Solicitors Foundation (AS Foundation), which BCLP became a founding member of in 2020. AS Foundation seeks to remove financial barriers for young people entering the legal profession by funding scholarships, providing grants for equipment, providing clothing for interviewing individuals and paying for transport to events and legal work experience.
