A&O opens doors for disadvantaged youngsters
updated on 21 April 2011
Magic circle giant Allen & Overy (A&O) has become the first law firm to join the government's new social mobility initiative which gets companies to offer internships to young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. The initiative - known as 'Opening Doors, Breaking Barriers' - is part of the wider social mobility strategy unveiled by the government at the beginning of April. Other organisations signed up are KPMG, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Channel 4, the Guardian and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants.
A&O partner and social investment head Susan Hazledine told Legal Week: "The reason why the lack of social mobility is a concern is because it means a loss of talent for the profession. We have been passionate about broadening access to the legal industry for some time and there is a lot that can be done at various stages. I expect more firms will get involved in this important project."
