Law Society Diversity Access Scheme awards 15 scholarships in its latest roll out
updated on 15 September 2025
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The Law Society of England and Wales has awarded 15 scholarships to aspiring solicitors, welcoming them into its Diversity Access Scheme (DAS), which is now in its 21st year. The DAS supports those facing social, educational, financial or personal obstacles to qualifying – assisting awardees on their legal academic journey and helping them obtain relevant work experience and access to mentoring opportunities.
Since its inception in 2004, the DAS has invested £3.5 million into supporting over 300 awardees to pursue their legal education and careers.
The DAS’ alumni work across a range of different areas, with:
- 19% in corporate and financial services;
- 16% in social welfare (immigration, asylum and housing);
- 10% in family and children;
- 8% in commercial law;
- 8% in property law; and
- 39% in ‘other’ areas of law.
One of the 2025 DAS awardees, Ayo Wale, said: “Coming from a care background and a lower-income household, I have worked diligently and persevered to reach this stage. I am incredibly grateful for this invaluable support, which has made pursuing my goal of becoming a solicitor truly possible."
Another 2025 DAS award recipient, Yahya Qazi, added: “It’s encouraging to be part of a scheme that doesn’t just talk about diversity but actively invests in it.”
Law Society President Richard Atkinson said: “It’s essential that we support people who face social, educational, financial, or personal obstacles on their path to qualifying as a solicitor.
“The legal profession in England and Wales must reflect the society that it serves. It’s imperative that people from all backgrounds are given the opportunity to join and succeed in this rewarding profession."
Sponsors are a vital part of the DAS. This year sponsors include:
- BPP University Law School;
- Kingsley Napley LLP;
- NatWest Legal.
- Nottingham Law School;
- The College of Legal Practice;
- The University of Law;
- University of Westminster; and
- Withers LLP;
General counsel for retail and wealth banking at NatWest, Mark Johnson, said: “We’ve been a long-time supporter of the Law Society’s Diversity Access Scheme and have seen first-hand the life-changing impact it has on its recipients.”
For more Diversity Access Schemes, check out our dedicated page.
