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The law is stepping up its game when it comes to diversity and we’re starting to see a real push to make things more inclusive these days, which is pretty exciting to see. There are more and more initiatives aimed directly at underrepresented groups. It’s all about creating opportunities and making sure that everyone, no matter their background, has a fair shot at success. A few standout examples of this shift include scholarships, charities, open days and broader diversity access schemes.

Diversity access schemes

Diversity access schemes are game changers when it comes to opening doors for talented people from underrepresented backgrounds. Here are a few organisations making a real impact.

SEO London

• Sponsors for Educational Opportunity (SEO London) is a game-changing UK charity, which has been working since 2000 to level the playing field for students from low-income and minority backgrounds. It’s all about helping young people break into competitive fields like investment banking, technology and corporate law through tailored programmes, mentorship and invaluable industry insights!
• By teaming up with more than 140 leading firms like Mayer Brown International LLP and Ropes & Gray International LLP, SEO London gives participants exclusive access to internships and job opportunities, along with the employability support they need to shine. If you’re looking to kickstart your career and make your mark in your chosen field, SEO London is the organisation to check out.
• SEO’s Elevate workshops are free online sessions open to all registrants, focusing on employability skills and industry awareness. You’ll find workshops on CV writing, interview preparation and insights from senior industry leaders.
• Meanwhile, the Academies offer 15 to 20 hours of online training, two days in London and ongoing support to help you build the knowledge and skills to impress in interviews. You’ll practise technical skills, develop a standout CV, and network with peers and industry professionals. With SEO London, you’ll be well on your way to success. 

Fieldfisher

• Fieldfisher is a forward-thinking European law firm that shines in some of the most exciting sectors out there, including energy, technology, financial services and life sciences. With 25 offices across 11 countries, the firm is making waves in the legal world, but it’s also committed to making a real difference through its own Diversity Access Scheme.
• Fieldfisher knows that diversity is crucial for success and is looking to support students from various backgrounds, including minority ethnic communities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, students with disabilities and first-generation university attendees. If you’re on track for a 2:1 degree, from an underrepresented background and passionate about law, the firm’s Diversity Access Scheme could be a good opportunity for you.
• This paid two-week programme provides hands-on experience at a top law firm and insights from Peloton’s in-house legal team.

Scholarships/bursaries

Scholarships and bursaries aimed at increasing diversity help underrepresented groups to overcome financial barriers to higher education, fostering inclusivity and enriching the academic community.

The Sutton Trust

• The Opportunity Bursary, supported by JP Morgan Chase, is a fantastic step towards making the legal field (and other top industries) more accessible and diverse. Designed for Sutton Trust alumni, this bursary provides £2,500 to £5,000 to help students fund experiences – whether that’s an internship, volunteering gig or unique project – that boost their skills and make them stand out in the competitive job market. 
• By covering costs that might otherwise be barriers, this bursary is all about giving students from underrepresented backgrounds the chance to build essential experience and confidence. Each year, 50 students are selected based on social mobility criteria, ensuring those who need this support most are prioritised.

Accutrainee

• The Accutrainee Scholarship Programme is designed to open doors for aspiring solicitors from underrepresented backgrounds who are ready to break into the legal profession. This isn’t just any programme – Accutrainee is offering a unique route to qualification by sponsoring your Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE) and connecting you with qualifying work experience (QWE). Whether you’re eyeing the traditional training contract route or the SQE path, Accutrainee has your back with personalised mentors and its exclusive AI-powered training buddy, Pathways.
• The programme is built for candidates who’ve faced extra challenges getting into law – think social mobility hurdles, degree barriers or financial constraints. If successful, you’ll be added to its candidate network and can kick off your legal journey by gaining advice on the QWE opportunities with Accutrainee’s partner organisations. Plus, for those eligible to continue down the Legal Practice Course route, funding for that course will also be discussed. It’s an incredible opportunity to launch your legal career with the right support.

Open days

Open days at law firms enhance diversity by targeting underrepresented groups. These events provide valuable insights and connections with diverse role models, encouraging more individuals from varied backgrounds to pursue careers in law.

Find out about upcoming open days.

Baker McKenzie

• Baker McKenzie is paving the way for a more inclusive legal profession with a range of open days tailored for underrepresented groups. These events are all about creating a welcoming environment for aspiring lawyers and showcasing the firm’s commitment to diversity.
  • Black Lawyers and Allies Open Day: dive into inspiring journeys of Black lawyers and learn about the firm’s diversity initiatives. Enjoy interactive workshops, practice group overviews and helpful application tips while networking with industry pros.
  • Employability Open Day (Mental Wellbeing and Disability): designed for candidates with disabilities, this day focuses on overcoming application fears. You’ll get practical tips, a session on mental wellbeing and insights into practice groups.
  • Women’s Open Day: focused on empowering women, this event highlights mentoring and networking opportunities. Hear from senior female lawyers, participate in workshops and gather application advice;
  • LGBTQ+ & Allies Open Day: this day aims to create an inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals. Hear personal stories, join interactive workshops, and network with partners and trainees.